A probabilistic investigation into deterioration of CFRP-concrete interface in aggressive environments

This paper presents a probabilistic investigation into the deterioration of CFRP-concrete interface subjected to aggressive environments. A total of 53 single-lap shear specimens are exposed to freeze-wet-dry, wet-dry, and constant cold temperature conditions, 7 of which are unconditioned control specimens. Test parameters include the number of environmental cycles up to 150 and the degree of temperature as low as -30 degrees C for 2000 h. Upon completion of the planned environmental cycling, the residual capacity of the CFRP-interface (i.e., local interfacial fracture energy) is evaluated. The effect of freeze-wet-dry and constant cold temperature exposure is noticeable on the deterioration of the interface, whereas that of wet-dry is negligible. Probability distribution of the interfacial capacity is found to be normal and statistical uncertainty increases with the number of environmental cycles. Refined design factors are suggested using a Monte-Carlo simulation to ensure the sustainable performance of CFRP-retrofit systems for climatic regions with which freezing environment is associated. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.