Seismic retrofitting of existing plane frame with FRP materials

Aim of the paper is the evaluation of the seismic behavior of plane frames, designed for vertical loads only, then strengthened with FRP materials. The design of the retrofitting is carried out according to the current seismic codes, with the purpose of complying with the capacity design criterion. The feasibility and effectiveness of the procedure is discussed on the basis on the seismic response of reinforced and un-reinforced plane frames, in terms of both failure modes and plastic hinges distribution in the structural elements