Modelling of time-dependent bonding and debonding in structures externally strengthened with fibre reinforced polymer sheets

Abstract

The use of fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs) as externally bonded reinforcements has gained widespread acceptance as an innovative technique for the maintenance, rehabilitation and upgrading of existing concrete structures. Significant enhancements in stiffness, strength and seismic performance of the structures can be achieved by this technique. Among extensive research efforts which have been paid worldwide, the author's research group at Ibaraki University in Japan has greatly contributed in this field. Although short-term behaviour of FRP-strengthened structures is intensively reported thus far, their long-term performance has not thoroughly elucidated yet. This paper presents the recent development in the long-term behaviour of concrete structures externally strengthened with FRP, particularly focusing on the FRP-concrete interface subjected to sustain and fatigue loads. Some suitable time-dependent models for creep and fatigue loading are also introduced. This review paper covers also a comparison between available guidelines and recommendations with the experimental results of time-dependent loading.Reference to this paper should be made as follows: Wu, Z. and Diab, H. (2009) 'Modelling of time-dependent bonding and debonding in structures externally strengthened with fibre reinforced polymer sheets', Int.