Prediction of bond failure of FRP layers and concrete interface using a finite element method

Fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) have become very popular for strengthening and reinforcing concrete civil structures such as columns, masonry walls, and bridges; for repairing deteriorating and damaged structures; and for strengthening wood structures.;It has been proven through multiple experiments and analyses that bonding FRP sheets to the face of a concrete or a wooden structure can increase the structure's strength. However, in many instances, the structure strengthened with the FRP suffered a premature debonding failure between the FRP and the concrete substrate before the concrete element had reached its increased strength potential. A number of parameters that contribute to the debonding have been identified in the literature and several analytical models have been developed that attempt to predict the bond failure.;The purpose of this research is to build a FRP strengthened reinforced concrete simply supported beam with finite element methods (FEMs) using ANSYS FEM software. The best approach for modeling the reinforced concrete beam with finite elements will be determined. A simple and efficient method for modeling the bond layer between the concrete and the FRP layers will also be determined. The finite element (FE) models will then be analyzed with nonlinear analyses and the results will be evaluated. The debond failure or fiber rupture mode of failure will be predicted based on the FEM results. The effects of the epoxy's parameters will be investigated. The validity of the models will be compared to various empirical model results and experimental results.