Experimental Evaluation of the Employment of a Laminated Composite Material with Sisal Fibres as Reinforcement in Timber Beams

Abstract

Timber is the oldest construction materials in the world, have been widely used in structures in addition to having a high longevity, if treated properly (maintenance). If this does not occur, the wood deteriorates due to the action of insects, fungi and other aggressive agents. There are several materials and techniques used to reinforce the damaged parts. This paper presents an experimental study ofEucalyptus grandis and Pinus elliiottiitimber bea ms rein forced with sisal fibres laminated composite materials. The co mposite material and the wood were prepared for testing. In order to simulate the defect, some parts were cracked. The study was to determine the maximu m load (rupture) applied on the timberin the conditions: without defect, with defect and without composite and with defect and with composite, aiming to verify the efficiency of the laminate as reinforcement in the wooden beams. The experimental results indicate the possible use of the laminated composite as reinforcement, presenting considerable increase in the maximu m strength supported by the timber when compared to unreinforced cracked condition, being more efficient for the Pinus elliiottii species.

Epoxy mortar timber beam upgrading

“…A substantial amount of work has been carried out on the use of laminated composites as reinforcement in timber beams (Corradi et al 2006; Alam et al 2009; Campilho et al 2009; Jankowski et al 2010; Mohamad et al 2011; Carvalho et al 2012; García et al 2013), revealing a general enhancement in mechanical strength. In contrast, much less work has been devoted to the use of particulate composites to repair timber beam surfaces (Braz et al 2013; Carvalho et al 2016).…”