Analytically Investigation of FRP Ductility Effect on Retrofitted RC Columns

Abstract

Retrofitting of currently used buildings has come into question with the determination of buildings’ performance levels due to earthquake force effect. In this sense, lots of retrofitting techniques have been applied for the retrofitting of current buildings. Columns, beams, joints and slab can be reinforced on the basis of member, with the retrofitting techniques. By this way, building safety is provided by increasing the performance level of the buildings. Within the scope of this study, force-deformation relationship of a single column reinforced with FRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) compared with not reinforced column was analysed with regard to finite element method. In the analyses, a column in 300x300 mm in size, 2000 mm in height was modelled. Load was applied step by step as lateral load from 50 nodes which are on 1/7 top of column. After the force-displacement relationship of not retrofitted column was revealed, analysis was repeated by modelling FRP material through plastic hinge area of not damaged column. In conclusion, it is found out that FRP material increases energy consumption capacity of a single column up to 30%.