Studies on Mechanically Fastened Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Strengthening Systems

It, this paper experimental results from 23 direct shear tests on fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strips mechanically fastened (MF) to concrete are reported. Based on the experimental results of one fastener FRP/concrete connection, bearing-slip models are developed to address the MF-FRP/concrete interfacial behavior Finite element models are then presented to address the interfacial behavior between the FRP strips and the concrete substrate for both the MF-FRP/concrete direct shear specimens, as well as for MF-FRP-strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) beams. Results are presented in terms of ultimate load capacities, load-slip relationships, and strain distributions along the FRP strip. The numerical predictions are compared with experimental data, and a very good agreement is obtained.