Predicting Fatigue Service Life Extension of RC Bridges with Externally Bonded CFRP Repairs.

摘要

This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the fatigue performance of RC beams strengthened with different externally bonded CFRP systems. Seven specimens were fabricated; three had no CFRP; the remaining four had one of two CFRP systems. The objective of this study was to determine the effect the CFRP repair had on the growth rate of a fatigue crack initiating from a notch in the tensile rebars. The results of the experimental study showed an extended fatigue life and a slowed crack growth rate in specimens repaired with both CFRP systems. The crack growth rates were used to determine material constants for the Paris Law, which describes growth of a stable fatigue crack. These results were then used to propose recommendations for design of FRP repair systems for a specific fatigue life.