Abstract

This paper presents the results of experimental investigation on concrete cylinders confined with two different types of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets, they are: synthetic high strength CFRP composites and composites using natural fiber like Jute. These two FRPs are very much distinct with respect to their strength and recycle properties. Conventional FRPs like CFRP possess superior mechanical strength than natural FRPs, but have got some serious drawbacks such as high density, high cost and poor recycling and non-biodegradable properties. On the other hand, the durability of the natural fibers can be enhanced by mummification of the fibers within the epoxy resin. An experimental study was conducted, where twenty six small scale cylindrical concrete specimens (100 × 200 mm) were subjected to uniaxial compression up o failure and the corresponding stress-strain behaviors were observed. The ultimate failure load and the deformation at peak load were the two important observations. The results demonstrate that a significant increase in the compressive strength can be achieved by confining the concrete with CFRP but both strength and ductility are compromised when concrete is wrapped with JUTE-FRP. However, JUTE-FRP shows reasonably good ductile behavior for the case of low strength concrete and can safely be used for brick masonry column. For low cost strengthening work, JUTE-FRP can be an alternative for low strength concrete and masonry works.

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