Experimental analysis of reinforced concrete shear deficient beams with circular web openings strengthened by CFRP composite

In this study, two methods of CFRP applications were utilized to strengthen the shear deficient beams with cir-cular holes and a comprehensive experimental program consisting of 11 1/2 scaled specimens was undertaken. The beams with hole diameter (D)/beam height ratio (H) of 0.30, 0.44, 0.64 ratios, symmetrically drilled in shear span were tested under vertical loading. D/H ratio of 0.30 did cause not only a decrease in load carrying capacity but also increased the ductility of the beam. However, significant decreases in load carrying capacities were observed as the hole diameters increase. The load carrying capacity and ductility were significantly improved owing to different CFRP configurations. The fact that the hole diameter and CFRP strengthening method are very important parameters for strengthening is observed. No CFRP strengthening alternative was successful in the beams with a D/H ratio of 0.64. A detailed macro and micro damage analyses are presented.