Performance of eccentrically loaded low‐strength RC columns confined with posttensioned metal straps: An experimental and numerical investigation

This study experimentally and numerically examines the performance of low‐strength reinforced concrete (LS RC) columns confined with external post‐tensioned metal straps (PTMS). Twelve square columns of cross‐section 125 × 125 mm and height 1500 mm were subjected to axial load, with eight columns being eccentrically loaded. Four columns were control specimens without confinement, and another eight were confined using a novel technique that provides active confinement through the PTMS. The main parameters investigated included the PTMS confinement ratio (ρv = 0.64% and 1.28%) and different eccentricities (e/b = 0, 0.25, 0.5 or 1.0, where e = eccentricity). The results show that the capacity and axial displacement of the PTMS‐confined columns increased by up to 43% and 116% over unconfined control columns. Finite element analyses of the columns were carried out in Abaqus® to provide further insight into the behavior of PTMS‐confined columns. This study contributes towards developing cost‐effective confinement solutions for LS RC columns, thus encouraging the broader adoption of active confinement techniques in practical strengthening applications.