Study on Flexural strength of RC Beams Using Polymer Infiltrated Steel Fiber Laminates

Abstract

An experimental investigation is made for strengthening of RC beams. This research is currently being focused on the use of correct material for repair and strengthening of existing reinforced concrete structure and the research is also concern about the effective utilization of aggregate in construction industry due to scarcity of natural resources. Strengthening can be done by using polymer which includes high steel fiber. Here crimpled steel fiber is used having 0.5mm diameter and aspect ratio of 50. This study is meant for analyzing the flexural behavior of external bonded reinforced concrete beam. The external strengthening is need for increasing durability & serviceability of the member. In total four number of beam specimens were casted and tested less than two points loading. Out of four specimens, one was conventional and for the next beam laminates bonded at bottom and beam bonded at bottom and lateral faces and beam laminated by all the four sides. The cross sectional dimension of beam 1100 mm x 100 mm x 150 mm. Load deflection characteristics of the specimens were studied and energy absorption were calculated. An analytical model was created with ANSYS and the experimental results were compared with the software.