Numerical simulation and ultimate deformation model of FRP-plated RC beams using H-type end anchorage

Abstract A ductile end anchorage (EA) system for fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets using H-type anchors has been recently proposed to compensate for the loss of deformation capability of externally-bonded FRP strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) beams. The effectiveness of the novel anchorage system has been verified by existing experimental results, while there still lack of deep investigations on its strengthening mechanisms and quantitative evaluations of the deformation capability. Against this background, high-fidelity finite element (FE) models of FRP-plated concrete members and RC beams with H-type end anchors are developed using LS-DYNA in this paper. The most proper simulation approach is identified through comparing with the experimental results. Based on the validated FE model, the mechanical behaviors and strengthening mechanisms of the end anchorage system are investigated thoroughly. Extended parametric studies are conducted to study the influences of FRP thickness and the width of the anchorage deformation section on the strengthening effectiveness. Based on the findings in the numerical simulation, the strength model of EA-strengthened beams is improved, and an analytical model for predicting the ultimate deflection of EA-strengthened beams is established.