Experimental Investigation On Load Carrying Capacity Of Modified Reinforced Concrete Column Wrapped With Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer

Abstract

In this paper, an experimental investigation was conducted to evaluate the load-carrying capacity of concrete column specimens externally wrapped with Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP). The study considered key variables such as the presence or absence of GFRP wrapping, as well as whether the specimens had modified or unmodified sections. For each combination of parameters, three specimens were cast, resulting in a total of 12 specimens. All specimens were subjected to axial compressive loading until failure, and their performance was monitored throughout the testing process. The results revealed that GFRP wrapping significantly improved the structural behavior and load resistance of the columns. Specifically, the specimens with both wrapping and section modification exhibited the greatest increase in strength, demonstrating the synergistic effect of geometric enhancement and external confinement. Wrapped specimens without modification also showed notable improvement compared to unwrapped ones. Failure patterns indicated a shift from brittle crushing to a more ductile response in wrapped columns. This study confirms the effectiveness of GFRP wrapping as a viable retrofitting technique for enhancing the axial load capacity of concrete columns, particularly when combined with cross-sectional modifications. The findings have potential implications for strengthening existing structures in seismic and high-load environments.