Influence of externally bonded reinforcement on the crack spacing

Typical for the use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer - Externally Bonded Reinforcement (FRP-EBR) for flexural strengthening is the possible occurrence of different types of debonding mechanisms. Especially in the case of intermediate crack debonding, the crack spacing is one of the influencing parameters. In literature it is generally assumed that the crack spacing stays constant over the depth of the beam. Herewith, cracks aris in the tension zone of the beams, are bridged by the internal and external reinforcement, and extend until the neutral axis of the beam. Based on microscopic analysis, a number of smaller cracks have been observed in the concrete cover near the laminate, in stead of one major crack. Hence the assumption of constant crack spacing over the depth of the beam appears questionable. Taking into account this observation may result in more precise debonding modeling.

ISBN:978-3-905594-50-8

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