Low-Cost Fiber Rope Reinforced Polymer (FRRP) Confinement of Square Columns with Different Corner Radii

This research investigates the behavior of square concrete columns externally wrapped by low-cost and easily available fiber rope reinforced polymer (FRRP) composites. This study mainly aims to explore the axial stress-strain relationships of FRRP-confined square columns. Another objective is to assess suitable predictive models for the ultimate strength and strain of FRRP-confined square columns. A total of 60 square concrete columns were cast, strengthened, and tested under compression. The parameters were the corner radii of square columns (0, 13, and 26 mm) and different materials of FRRP composites (polyester, hemp, and cotton FRRP composites). The strength and deformability of FRRP-confined specimens were observed to be higher than the unconfined specimens. It was observed that strength gains of FRRP-confined concrete columns and corner radii were directly proportional. The accuracy of ultimate strength and strain models developed for synthetic FRRP-confined square columns was assessed using the test results of this study, showing the need for the development of improved predictive models for FRRP-confined square columns. Newly developed unified models were found to be accurate in predicting the ultimate strength and strain of FRRP-confined columns.

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