Seismic Retrofitting of Reinforced Concrete Buildings Using Fiber Reinforced Polymers

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete buildings has become a critical aspect of civil engineering due to the increasing vulnerability of structures to earthquakes. This thesis focuses on the application of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) as a retrofitting material to enhance the seismic performance of existing reinforced concrete buildings. The research aims to investigate the effectiveness of FRP materials in improving the structural integrity and seismic resistance of buildings subjected to seismic forces. The study begins with a comprehensive review of the background of seismic retrofitting techniques and the use of FRP materials in the construction industry. The problem statement highlights the need for innovative retrofitting solutions to address the seismic vulnerability of existing buildings. The objectives of the study include evaluating the structural performance of FRP retrofitted buildings, assessing the cost-effectiveness of FRP retrofitting, and comparing the seismic performance of retrofitted buildings with traditional retrofitting methods. The research methodology involves a combination of experimental testing and numerical simulations to analyze the behavior of FRP retrofitted buildings under seismic loading. The experimental testing includes material characterization of FRP composites, small-scale specimen testing, and full-scale testing of retrofitted building components. The numerical simulations utilize advanced modeling techniques to predict the structural response of retrofitted buildings in seismic events. The findings of the study demonstrate the effectiveness of FRP materials in enhancing the seismic performance of reinforced concrete buildings. The results show that FRP retrofitting improves the ductility, strength, and energy dissipation capacity of structures, leading to better seismic resistance and reduced damage during earthquakes. Cost analysis reveals that FRP retrofitting can be a cost-effective solution compared to traditional retrofitting methods in certain scenarios. The discussion of findings delves into the implications of the research results for the field of seismic retrofitting and the broader construction industry. The limitations of the study are acknowledged, including the simplifications made in the experimental and numerical modeling approaches. The conclusions drawn from the study emphasize the potential of FRP retrofitting as a sustainable and efficient method for enhancing the seismic resilience of existing buildings. In summary, this thesis contributes to the advancement of seismic retrofitting practices by exploring the application of FRP materials in improving the seismic performance of reinforced concrete buildings. The research findings provide valuable insights for engineers, researchers, and policymakers involved in the seismic assessment and retrofitting of structures. The study underscores the significance of adopting innovative retrofitting solutions to mitigate the seismic risk associated with existing building stock and enhance the overall resilience of built environments.