Abstract:
Beam Column joints experience large shear forces during seismic events and may
undergo brittle failure which is not preferred. Eminent scholars suggested different
technologies and methods to strengthen the beam column joints. FRPs, which have
high strength to weight ratio, are also suggested as retrofitting materials for
strengthening RC structural members. From literature review, it is found that FRPs are
very effective in strengthening the shear, flexural and axial capacities of beams and
columns. They are being effectively used for retrofitting exterior and corner joints due
to ease of accessibility and placement.
This experimental study is under taken to study the behavior of RC exterior beamcolumn
joints which lack in shear reinforcement and strengthened by FRPs. Total three
models have been prepared of which one joints have been strengthened by Carbon FRP
(CFRP) Fabrics and remaining two was control specimens with tie and without tie at
joints. The samples have been subjected to incremental cyclic loading provided by
hydraulic jacks under constant axial or gravity load and their load-deformation
behaviors have been measured by dial gauges and video extensometer. The behavior of
the strengthened joint are compared with the control model.
The joints without shear reinforcement undergo brittle failure under cyclic loading. But
their ductility increases with increased concrete strength. The joints strengthened by the
CFRPs show better load bearing capacity with enhanced ductile behavior.
