Review of Concrete Structures Strengthened with FRP Against Impact Loading

Abstract

Recent global terrorism activities and threats imposed prominent danger to the public civil infrastructure, and thus blast and impact resistance design of structures has become an indispensable requirement in the design processes. Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) can be used as an excellent material to improve the blast and impact resistance of structures. Up to now most studies concentrate on blast-resistance of FRP strengthened structures. The number of studies about impact resistance of structures strengthened with FRP is very limited and the findings in these studies are controversial. Since structures under blast and impact loadings do not necessarily behave the same, it also is important to understand the performance of FRP strengthened structures subjected to impact loads. This study aims to provide an overview of the impact resistance of structures strengthened with FRP, which include reinforced concrete (RC) beams, RC slabs, RC columns and masonry walls. This study also reviews the dynamic properties of FRP materials. Although some issues still need to be investigated and clarified, it would be suggested that FRP can be used to strengthen and protect structures against impact events or terrorism activities. © 2016 Institution of Structural Engineers.