Measuring of crack bridging of CFRP strengthened concrete by digital image correlation

To strengthen existing reinforced concrete structures, often externally bonded reinforcement (EBR) is used. In this situation cracks in the concrete are bridged by both the internal and external reinforcement, influencing the crack pattern. To study this crack bridging effect of CFRP (carbon fibre reinforced polymer) bonded to concrete, a digital image correlation technique (DICT) is used. By means of this technique a visualization and detailed quantification is obtained of the strains in the laminate and surrounding concrete at the location of cracks. Given these measurements, the local crack pattern directly underneath the CFRP could be compared with the overall crack pattern of the tested beams. A smaller crack spacing has been demonstrated nearby the CFRP.

ISBN:9782720825422

Publication year:2009

Accessibility:Closed