This paper summarizes the experimental and analytical research work for simulating a recently built retaining masonry wall post-tensioned with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) tendons. A group of creep and shrinkage experiments on masonry prisms similar to that used in the masonry diaphragm wall is discussed. A theoretical investigation using numerical models to describe the time-dependent deformations of the masonry diaphragm wall was performed. Creep coefficients based on the experiments are compared to common creep values based on other research investigations and on well established code models. A finite element model of the masonry diaphragm wall was developed incorporating the non-linear time-dependent properties of masonry to investigate the long-term deformations and stress redistribution in the walls over time. Deformations of the walls are compared to observations from a continuous monitoring system observing the lateral deformations and strains and stresses of the wall.

The issue of the rehabilitation of damaged structures has attracted the attention of researchers to resolve undesired problems caused by increased traffic loads, corrosion, or impact damage. Appropriate methods are therefore essential for extending the lifespan of the structures. The application of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets has been reported as a promising and viable solution with many advantages such as increased flexural strength, and improved serviceability and durability. CFRP sheets may be used more efficiently by applying prestress. For this effective strengthening application, the method of prestressing CFRP sheets and its feasibility are important parameters that need further investigation. In this study, the applicability of a prestressing system is investigated on large-scale prestressed concrete beams (3.3 m span) tested under static loading. Nonlinear finite element analysis is conducted to predict the behavior of tested beams, including a parametric study to investigate the contribution of different prestress levels in the CFRP sheets to the flexural behavior of strengthened beams.

The need for sustainable structures is the driving force for the growing international interest in using advanced materials such as fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) materials for civil infrastructure applications. To date, FRP materials have not realized their full potential within the construction industry. One of the contributing factors is the limited information regarding their long-term performance. In particular, since the service life of a civil engineering structure is typically 50 to 100 years, knowledge of the long-term durability of FRPs is of prime importance. The research work presented in this paper is the result of a research collaboration between North Carolina State University and the University of Cambridge. The research investigates the durability of concrete beams prestressed with CFRP bars and compares the results with those of companion beams prestressed with steel wires. A total of 15 beams have been constructed and tested under different mechanical and environmental conditions. The parameters included in the program were the level of sustained stress in the bars and wires (55 and 70 percent of the ultimate bar or wire strength), the environmental exposure condition (air exposure and continuous exposure to 15 percent by mass salt water spray at 54 °C temperature), the length of time under sustained load (9 and 18 months) and the method of testing (with or without application of cyclical loading prior to static testing to failure). The experimental program illustrates that CFRP prestressed concrete beams exhibit comparable ultimate strength and fatigue strength properties in comparison to equivalent steel prestressed concrete beams. Furthermore, test results show that the beams prestressed with steel wires did not survive the environmental exposure over 12 months whereas the beams prestressed with CFRP bars survived up to the end of the 18 month long extreme environmental exposure, indicating the excellent durability of CFRP in the marine environment. Provided that provision is made for the lack of CFRP ductility in comparison to steel, the research undertaken has indicated that CFRP prestressed concrete is a durable, appropriate option when designing structures for use in offshore environments.

A new design concept, experimental assessment and numerical simulation of a wedge anchor system for prestressing CFRP rods are presented. This compact and reusable anchor required no presetting load and was capable to carry the full design strength of the rod. It consists of an outer cylinder (barrel), a number of wedges, and a soft metal sleeve. The contacting surfaces of the wedges and barrel have a circular profile along the length of the anchor. Monotonic tensile testing was carried out. The relationship of the tensile load and displacement of the rod was established. A three dimensional finite element model was developed to simulate the anchor components. Contact pressure on the rod surface for different presetting distances was low at the loading end of the rod and increased at the free end. Tensile load and displacement relationships was found and compared to that of the experimental investigation.

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials have been proposed for use in lieu of steel for prestressing applications. The use of FRP has been growing rapidly in recent years. FRP provides options and benefits not available using traditional materials. The promise of FRP materials lies in their high-strength, lightweight, noncorrosive, nonconducting, and nonmagnetic properties. In 2005, ACI Committee 440, Fiber Reinforced Polymer Reinforcement, published ACI 440.4R-04, “Prestressing Concrete Structures with FRP Tendons,” as one of several guides in ACI’s Emerging Technology Series to provide recommendation for the use of FRP materials based on available test data, technical reports, and limited field applications. The aim of this document is to help practitioners implement FRP technology while providing testimony that design and construction with FRP materials systems is rapidly moving from emerging to mainstream technology. In addition to this publication, ACI Committee 440 organized a special technical session entitled “Case Histories and Use of FRP for Prestressing Applications” at the ACI Fall 2006 Convention in Denver, Colorado, on November 8, 2006. The session provided a worldwide state-of-the-art forum for researchers, civil/structural engineers, contractors, consultants, practitioners, and regulatory authorities to exchange recent advances in both research and practice. The technical papers presented at the session and published in this volume included the most recent analytical and experimental research work as well as selected field applications, design, and construction guidelines. The session was well attended, and generated substantial technical discussion and exchange of new technology. This Special Publication consists of 10 papers, some of which were presented in the special session sponsored by ACI Committee 440 at the ACI Fall 2006 Convention. Note: The individual papers are also available. Please click on the following link to view the papers available, or call 248.848.3800 to order. SP-245