Enhancement of blast resistance of reinforced concrete structures with externally bonded reinforcement

This project deals with the evaluation of the usefulness of a potential method for improvement of the blast resistance of structural elements in reinforced concrete and thus for the increase of structural robustness. Upgrading of static load bearing capacity of structural elements (beams, slabs and columns) can be realized by means of the application of externally bonded reinforcement (EBR). One of today’s state-of-the-art techniques is the use of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composite strips and sheet. This technique is not only used by civil contractors but also by military engineering troops. However, applications today are mainly for static load cases (increase of load capacity of slabs and bridges, etc.). Several attempts are reported about the use of EBR for strengthening of reinforced concrete structures against blast loads. Yet, results are only available for very particular test conditions. It also appears that there is a lack of in-depth research in understanding the fundamental behaviour of FRP strengthened structures under blast loading; several failure mechanisms such as the ripping off of the EBR and shear failure are difficult to control. The present project proposes a detailed analysis of the efficiency of CFRP EBR on beams and columns for blast loads, based on the synergetic use of analytical, numerical and experimental models. The project thus wants to contribute to the evaluation of the EBR technique for a better force protection