structural reinforcement

The first step is an analysis of the various options for reinforcement, the types of reinforcement needed, and their application. We pay special attention to the connection between the reinforcement and the original structure. We carefully analyse which modern materials (such as synthetic resins) are best suited for the task. There are various families of synthetic resins (epoxy, polyester, acrylic, etc.) but epoxy resin is the most commonly used in structural repair and reinforcement. This is because it offers excellent bonding properties, as well as being very stable under physical and chemical action.

Epoxy resins are most commonly used in structural reinforcements as an adhesive between reinforced concrete and a steel band or sheet of carbon fibre, thereby increasing the bearing capacity of the concrete element (usually a beam, a plate, or a support) against bending and/or shear forces. This type of reinforcement demands excellent adhesion between the epoxy and concrete, on the one side, and the steel or carbon fibre sheet on the other side, as well suitable physical and mechanical properties of the epoxy itself.

There are generally two types of reinforcement:

Active reinforcement

Active reinforcements are especially suitable when reinforcement is due to the need to repair deformations, or when the reinforcement must provide a significant increase in the strength of the structure in order to satisfy ultimate limit states.

Passive reinforcements

Passive reinforcements are suitable for increasing the safety margin of a structure to meet ultimate limit states, and also to increase the strength of the structure.

Fundamental Aspects for Strengthening Structural Design. Climent Molins i Borrell. PhD Civil Engineering, and Isabel Serrà i Martín, PhD Architecture.

The following points can be highlighted regarding carbon fibre reinforcement:

Defined mechanical properties; wide range of dimensions and optimised design; selectable elasticity; product is factory prepared and ready for use; application possible at low temperatures with externally heated laminates; high service temperatures; pre-stressable; very high resistance; simple to apply; defined mechanical strength; carbon fibre fabric; reinforcement against shearing; resistant to impact and explosion; very flexible for finishings; easily applied in circular and squared sections; creates highly resistant walls, beams, and spaces.

Structural Reinforcement with Carbon Fibre Composite Material. José Pertejo García, SIKA Innovaciones Tecnológicas