Flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete beam using jute rope composite plate

Abstract

Externally bonded carbon fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) laminate is an effective technique for flexural strengthening of deficient reinforced concrete (RC) beam. However, health hazard issue and high expenses are the major limitations of CFRP laminate. This research focuses on to fabricate natural fibre based jute rope composite plate as an alternative of CFRP laminate for flexural strengthening of RC beam. In the experimental program the composite plate using jute rope was fabricated and used for flexural strengthening of RC beam. The results of strengthened beam were then compared with those of un-strengthened control beam. Results showed that strengthened beam with jute rope composite plate had 131 kN failure load which was found to be 58% higher as compared to control beam. The jute rope composite plate strengthened beam had reduced deflection at initial stage and increased ductility during the time of failure as compared to control beam.