Mechanical Performance Evaluation of Concrete Beams Strengthened with Carbon Fiber Materials

Figure 4

The specimens were tested in the three-point bending configuration, and the load was applied with cylindrical rollers as line load across the top width of the beams. To spread the load and avoid stress concentrations, elastomeric pads were placed between the roller supports and the lower surface of the specimens and between the loading device and the top surface of the specimens. During experimental measurement, the ultimate load which makes crack propagate or makes the reinforced concrete beam fail in fiber, in concrete, or at the interface between them can be achieved according to instrument reading. Virtual crack closure technique (VCCT).