Experimental research on flexural performance of reinforced concrete beams combination strengthened with bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymer and steel plate

The experimental research on flexural performance of reinforced concrete (RC) beams combination strengthened with bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) and steel plate has been performed. The influences of the concrete strength, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, dosage of CFRP, quantity of steel plate and anchorage mode on failure mechanism and bearing capacity have been investigated. The experimental results indicate that the CFRP and steel plate combination strengthening method can effectively improve the load capacity of RC beams, restrict the development of existing cracks and enhance section stiffness, and by using the U style steel plate hoop anchorage system, sudden debonding failures can be avoided. Compared to RC beams being simply CFRP strengthened or steel plate strengthened, the combination strengthened beam offer better flexural performance.