An Experimental Investigation of Circular RC Columns with Various Slenderness Confined with CFRP Sheets
Résumé
The present paper deals with the analysis of experimental results, in terms of load carrying capacity and strains, obtained from tests on circular plain concrete and steel reinforced concrete columns, strengthened with external carbon fiber-reinforced polymer sheets. The experimental parameters include: different concrete strength, number of wrap layers and slenderness of the columns (L/Ø). A total of 48 specimens were subjected to axial compression. All test specimens were loaded to failure in axial compression. Compressive stress, axial and hoop strains have been recorded to evaluate the stress-strain relationship, ultimate strength, stiffness, and ductility of the specimens. Results clearly demonstrate that composite wrapping can enhance the structural performance of circular RC columns in terms of both maximum strength and ductility. The effects of test parameters are evidenced and compared.