Models analyzing the response of the adhesive joint between FRP and concrete: a comparative analysis

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) for structural elements’ strengthening and rehabilitation are increasingly gaining popularity because of their proven efficiency and ease of application. The response of the adhesive joint formed between the FRP and concrete is a crucial factor influencing the overall behavior of FRP structures. The analysis of the interface crack propagation is a complex task involving the consideration of multiple interacting mechanisms. This work aims to provide a background to a recently proposed model that analyzes the behavior of the adhesive joint formed at the interface between the FRP and concrete, by creating its counterpart. The study presented herein discusses a model based on fracture mechanics to obtain a reference point needed to assess the output provided by an algorithm utilizing a damage-based model for concrete and an empirical-based procedure for the loss of bond action. Typically, model validation is performed via a comparison against experimental data. However, additional insights into the interacting phenomena can be provided by comparing the results of various applicable models.