Full-scale testing of a parking structure column retrofitted with carbon fiber reinforced composites

A proof test was performed to investigate the improved seismic performance of parking structure columns retrofitted with carbon fiber composite jacketing. One full-scale square column with details simulating the typical existing parking structure columns designed following the pre-1971 codes was constructed and tested under constant axial load, cyclic shear and moment in double bending condition. Assessment analysis indicated that the column in 'as built' condition would suffer either a brittle shear failure or a premature failure due to lap-splice deterioration. Such failure modes could be avoided by the carbon fiber composite jacketing, which allowed the column to develop excellent hysteretic response with stable load carrying capacity and significantly improved ductility. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.