UNI-AXIAL TENSION TEST ON SECONDARY LOADED RC MEMBERS STRENGTHENED BY CARBON FIBER REINFORCED PLASTIC SHEETS

The resisting capacity of existing reinforced concrete (RC) members subjected to uni-axial tension is insufficient for some cases. Testing of 8 RC members are carried out to investigate the cracking load and ultimate load of the RC members strengthened with externally bonded carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) sheets. Two factors, preloading degree and continual loading degree, are analyzed, and formulas for calculating the tension capacity of the RC members are put forward. Testing results show that the ultimate load of RC members can be increased and its crack width can be restricted if strengthened with CFRP sheets. The calculation formulas agree well with testing data, hence can act as reference to the practical projects.