Non-linear analysis of one-way concrete slabs with carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer strips

Finite-element (FE) models of one-way spanning reinforced concrete slabs strengthened with carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips were constructed and analysed. The slabs, which had different-sized openings at different locations, were tested by the authors in a previous study. During the FE analysis, the effective failure modes were taken into account and the behaviour of the concrete-CFRP strip interface was modelled using a non-linear cohesive zone material model. The results of the FE analysis and experimental data were compared in terms of the ultimate load capacities of the slabs, load-displacement graphs, stress distributions and failure modes. The modelled results were found to be consistent with the experimental findings. The yield and ultimate shear force capacities, the yield and ultimate displacements and the yield stiffness of the slabs were calculated with average errors of 11.4%, 6.3%, 27.1%, 13.8% and 24.2%, respectively. After verification of the FE model, analyses of four additional slabs, not previously experimentally tested, were performed. An equation between the ultimate load capacity of a slab and opening size was developed based on the modelling results.