Finite element parametric study of reinforced concrete beams shear-strengthened with embedded FRP bars

Authors: Michael Qapo (Department of Civil Engineering), Samir Dirara, Yaser Jemaab
Link: dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.supflu.2016.05.002 

The cost of replacing structurally-deficient bridges in Europe is about €400 billion. This EPSRC-funded research provides valuable insight into the performance of the deep embedment (DE) method, a novel technique for concrete shear-strengthening. 

Besides establishing the influence of the main parameters governing the strengthened behaviour; this paper identifies limitations in current shear strengthening design guidelines. It also presents an accurate and experimentally validated finite element model for predicting the full behaviour of DE shear-strengthened concrete structures. It is envisaged that the model will be of significant interest to, and used by, practicing engineers.

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