Three-dimensional numerical modeling of shear-critical R/C beams strengthened with SRG jackets

This paper presents the results of an extended numerical investigation, using three-dimensional finite element modeling, of substandard reinforced concrete (R/C) beams, retrofitted by the addition of externally bonded Steel-Reinforced Grout (SRG) jackets. The experimental results of five (5) shear deficient R/C beams with rectangular cross section, subjected to monotonic loading, were utilized for calibrating the numerical model. One of the beams served as the control specimen, whereas in the rest of the beams alternative SRG jacketing configurations were applied. Parameters of experimental investigation were the type of the jacket (i.e. U-wrapped and fully-wrapped) and the number of layers (i.e. one and two). Both experimental and numerical evidence showed, that all the alternative SRG jacketing systems managed to significantly increase strength, whereas in the case of the fully-wrapped SRG jacketed beams, deformation capacity was substantially enhanced. The numerical model developed in this study, can accurately predict the response of shear-critical beams retrofitted by SRG jacketing.