This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the performance in cold weather conditions of circular concrete columns strengthened with Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) wraps. Forty-two (42) circular plain and reinforced concrete columns (152 × 305 mm) were tested. The test variables include the percentage of reinforcement (0%, 1% and 2.3%), the number of CFRP layers (0,1, or 2 layers) and environmental exposure condition. The specimens were conditioned in four different environments, as follows: a) room temperature (+20℃), b) low temperature (-18℃), c) freeze/thawing cycles (-18 to +20℃) and d) under water. Fifteen (15) columns were subjected to 200 freeze/thaw cycles, six (6) columns were kept at low temperature for 200 days, six (6) columns were submerged in water for 200 days while the remaining fifteen (15) columns were kept at room temperature. After completion of the cold climate exposure, the columns were tested for axial strength, and load versus axial strain plots were obtained. Circumferential strains in the CFRP sheets were also recorded to monitor the degree of confinement provided. Based on the results of the experimental program, CFRP sheets proved to be feasible in strengthening columns in cold regions.
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