Performance of fibre reinforced polymer strengthened reinforced concrete piles under lateral and uplift loads

Abstract

Pile foundations are crucial structural elements used to support axial and lateral loads in various civil engineering applications. However, the vulnerability of pile foundations to lateral forces induced by seismic events, strong winds, and other external pressures has prompted the need for effective strengthening techniques. In recent years, the use of fibre reinforced polymers (FRP) has gained prominence as a viable solution for improving the load carrying capacity and performance of pile foundations. This research aims to investigate the performance of pile foundations strengthened with FRP wraps, specifically focusing on basalt fibre reinforced polymer (BFRP) and glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) materials. newlineThe research begins with a comprehensive literature review to establish the current state of knowledge regarding pile behaviour under static and cyclic lateral loads and the effectiveness of FRP wraps in strengthening pile foundations. Based on this review, the research objectives are defined, which include evaluating the uplift load carrying capacity and lateral load capacity of piles wrapped with BFRP and GFRP materials and investigating the behaviour of FRP-soil interfaces and soil-pile load transfer interactions. newlineThe performance of BFRP and GFRP-strengthened piles is evaluated under various loading conditions through experimental studies. The influence of BFRP and GFRP wraps on the mechanical properties of concrete is assessed through preliminary tests. These tests include determining the compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity of the wrapped concrete specimens. The results indicate a significant improvement in the mechanical strength properties of concrete with the inclusion of BFRP and GFRP wraps. newline newline