AFRP retrofitting of RC structures in Japan

In Japan, many reinforced concrete (RC) bridge structures that were designed and constructed before the introduction of the modern seismic design codes collapsed in the 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu Earthquake and the 2004 Niigataken-Tyuetsu Earthquake. Following the lessons learnt from these severe earthquakes, proper strengthening schemes were implemented for many existing structures to meet the requirements of the new performance-based earthquake resistant design codes. The application of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) for strengthening techniques has drawn wide attention due to its advantages such as high strength to weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and ease of execution. This paper introduces current issues related to the deficient RC structural members in Japan and provides an overview of latest innovations in the technology and application of FRP sheets in structural retrofitting. Recent developments on the usage of mechanical anchorage system in strengthening beams of RC bridge frames with externally bonded AFRP sheets is also presented.