Numerical Study of a Concrete Beam with Hybrid Composite Material Strengthening

The numerous studies on the reinforcement of concrete beams using composite materials demonstrate that practically all of the research has concentrated on exterior reinforcement. In this research paper, we show the FE findings of the behavior of reinforced concrete beams with a new method of hybrid strengthening by coupling the GFRP composite grid and the FRP composite lamellae. The FRP composite lamellae is adhered to the bottom of the beam, and the GFRP composite grid is placed inside the beam. To better understand their behavior under a bending Load, numerical simulations based on finite elements were performed on three different strengthened beam types: Beams with GFRP grid reinforcement on the interior are designated “BRIC”; Beams with FRP composite jacket on the exterior “BREC” and whereas beams with hybrid reinforcement is designated “BHR.” The findings demonstrate that hybrid reinforcement enhances ultimate load, ductility, fracture strength, and energy dissipation capacity with matching deformation. Comparing the cost-effectiveness of the composite material to an external composite jacket for complete reinforcement. The strengthening approach has a substantial impact on the rupture mode.