Abstract
In this paper, an analytical model is proposed to predict the shear strenth of RC beams strengthened by FRP. This predictional model is composed of two basic models-the upper bound theorem for shear failure (shear tension or shear compression criteria) and a truss model based on the lower bound theorem for diagonal tension creteria. Also, a simple flexural theory based on USD is used to explain flexural failure. The major cause of destruction of RC beams shear strengthened by FRP does not lie in FRP fracture but in the loss of load capacity incurred by rip-off failure of shear strengthening material. Since interfacial shear stree between base concrete and the FRP is a major variable in rip-off failure mode, it is carefully analyzed to derive the shear strengthening effect of FRP. The ultimate shear strength and failure mode of RC beams, using different strengthening methods, estimated in this predictional model is then compared with the result derived from destruction experiment of RC beams shear strengthened using FRP. To verify the accuracy and consistency of the analysis, the estimated results using the predictional model are compared with various other experimental results and data from previous publications. The result of this comparative analysis showed that the estimates from the predictional model are in consistency with the experimental results. Therefore, the proposed shear strength predictional model is found to predict with relative accuracy the shear strength and failure mode of RC beams shear strengthened by FRP regardless of strengthening method variable.
