Experimental study on the behavior of eccentrically compressed reinforced concrete columns strengthened with CFRP composite sheets

Strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) columns is needed when the actual load-carrying capacity of the columns does not reach the required level due to either structural deterioration or increasing acting loads. This experimental study aims to evaluate the strengthening effect on the eccentrically-compressed RC columns using Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets, that confine around the column cross-section. Three RC column specimens with the same geometrical dimensions, reinforcement detailing, and concrete compressive strength were cast and tested in the current experimental investigation. One RC column without being strengthened is referred as the control specimen whereas two other RC columns were partially strengthened by CFRP sheets. All three RC columns were axially loaded with the same initial eccentricity e0 of 80 mm. Based on the test results such as the ultimate load-carrying capacity, the load-rotation relationship, and load-curvature at the middle of column height, the effectiveness of the strengthening technique is discussed.