Numerical analyses of hybrid-bonded FRP strengthened concrete beams

To overcome the problem of debonding, a new hybrid-bonded fiber-reinforced polymers (HB-FRP) strengthening system has recently been developed. This HB-FRP technique can increase the interfacial bond strength several folds. In this work, a finite element (FE) model for HB-FRP strengthened beams is developed to simulate the responses of the new structural system. The interfacial behaviors between the FRP and the concrete are simulated with a shear friction model. Comparisons between the predictions from this model and the test results demonstrate the accuracy of the FE model. The mechanism of the HB-FRP system and failure modes are then studied using the proposed model. © 2009 Computer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering.