Strategic positioning of FRP anchors in FRP-strengthened slabs

A common problem associated with the strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) structures with externally bonded fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites is the ability of the FRP to prematurely debond. The installation of anchorage devices is an intuitive and logical means with which to enhance the debonding resistance of such strengthening systems, however, there are limited comprehensive experimental studies to date. Anchors may also enhance the ductility of the strengthened member although experimental studies are particularly limited that investigate this phenomenon. This paper reports the results of seven reinforced concrete (RC) slab tests of which six slabs were strengthened in flexure with FRP plates. Five of the strengthened slabs were anchored with FRP anchors of different positioning and geometry. Depending on their position of installation, anchors are shown to enhance either the strength alone or both the strength and ductility of the FRP-strengthened slabs.