DESIGN OF FRP – REINFORCED CONCRETE ELEMENTS FOR UNDERREINFORCEMENT SECTION

Abstract

The design of fiber – reinforced polymer (FRP) – reinforcement concrete members for flexure is analogous to the design of steel – reinforced concrete members. However, the equivalent rectangular stress block parameters are not applicable for FRP – Reinforced concrete sections with reinforcement lower than the balanced ratio because the concrete strain is variable. In consequence, the analysis of this section become complex. The methodology developed in this work allow the design of this section. For the application of this method is not necessary the use of computer programs and the results are close enough to the real behavior. If the reinforcement ratio is less than the balanced ratio, the FRP rupture limit state controls and the failure of the member is sudden and catastrophic. However, tension – controlled sections are acceptable in the design of flexural members, if strength and serviceability criteria are satisfied