Three-parameter model for debonding of FRP plate from concrete substrate

Concrete beams retrofitted with bonded fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) plates often fail by debonding of the plate from the concrete surface. To predict the failure load in design, a proper debonding model is required. As debonding is a nonlinear process involving material softening, it can be analyzed once the interfacial shear (tau) versus sliding (s) relationship is known. Recent experimental results indicate that the simplest tau-s relationship should involve three parameters: the maximum shear stress for debonding to initiate, the initial residual stress right after debonding occurs, and a parameter governing the reduction of shear stress with sliding. In this paper, a FRP debonding model based on these three parameters is developed. The applicability of the model is verified through comparison with experimental results. Through a systematic parametric study, the effect of various material and geometric properties on the debonding process is investigated. Implications to the design of FRP strengthened members are highlighted.