Rapid Repair of Damaged RC Columns Through CFRCM Confinement

This paper presents the results of an experimental campaign aimed to investigate the behavior of pre-damaged reinforced concrete (RC) columns, repaired through confinement with Carbon fiber reinforced cementitious matrix (CFRCM). The analyzed samples differ by the shape of the cross-section (circular or square) and inner steel stirrups, while confinement was realized with 2 CFRCM layers for all cases. The experimental behavior was characterized in terms of axial stress-strain response, and hoop strains development. During the test, strains were monitored both in the carbon fiber layers and in the inner steel stirrups. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of CFRCM jackets when applied to RC elements with pre-existing damage and their capability to restore the initial compressive strength and ductility. Results showed that the effectiveness of CFRCM confinement system was able to restore the initial capacity of the damaged columns. In addition, an important influence on the confinement effectiveness of the cross-section shape and of the configuration of the internal transverse reinforcement was observed.