Analysis of Bond Performance of Timber Beam and CFRP RODS Bonded with Different End Conditions

In the recent years, the inclusion of mass timber in the construction industry has predominantly been relied on softwoods which classified as less durable due to lower stiffness. The main aim of this research is to propose an innovative strengthening technique utilizing carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars to increase the timber stiffness and overcome the shortcomings of using mass timber production (MTP) in construction. This project numerically investigated the behaviour of timber beams strengthened with CFRP bars with different end conditions. The CFRP bars were internally attached to the bottom side of the beam. The anchorage scheme was made by bent 111 mm from both ends of the CFRP bars by 90°. The numerical finite element (FE) simulation was compared with available experimental measurement. The developed FE model predicted the efficiency of the anchorage system and the debonding mechanism of FRP-strengthened structures. Timber beams subjected to CFRP reinforcement exhibited a great improvement in the stiffness and flexural strength compared to unreinforced beams.