Optimization of load transfer component for FRP cable anchor system

Abstract In this study, a theoretical analysis of load transfer component (LTC), experimental behavior enhancement of an LTC, and variable stiffness design of a fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) cable anchor system (CAS) were conducted. In addition, a resin-based LTC modified by two types of particles and three types of microfibers was investigated by analyzing a resin casting body (RCB). The results showed that failures in the RCBs modified by quartz sand (RCBQs), garnet sand (RCBGs), and sand and microfibers (RCBSFs) were caused by resin–sand interfacial debonding, microfiber debonding, pull-out, and fracture. The elastic modulus of the RCBQ/Gs and the RCBSFs were positively correlated to the sand and microfiber contents. However, the compressive strengths of the RCBQ/Gs initially decreased and subsequently increased with the increase in the sand content. The compressive strength of the RCBSFs typically increased with the increase in the microfiber content. In addition, the RCBSFs presented an optimal modified effect. The compressive behavior of the RCBSFs was appropriately described by a cubic polynomial fitting model with an R2 > 0.97. The optimal design of a variable-stiffness LTC was realized by decreasing the loading-end LTC stiffness and increasing the free-end LTC stiffness simultaneously.