Potential side-NSM strengthening approach to enhance the flexural performance of RC beams: Experimental, numerical and analytical investigations

The performance of reinforced concrete (RC) beam specimens strengthened using a newly proposed Side Near Surface Mounted (S-NSM) technology was investigated experimentally in this work. In addition, analytical and nonlinear finite element (FE) modeling was exploited to forecast the performance of RC members reinforced with S-NSM utilizing steel bars. Five (one control and four strengthened) RC beams were evaluated for flexural performance under static loading conditions employing four-point bending loads. Experimental variables comprise different S-NSM reinforcement ratios. The constitutive models were applied for simulating the non-linear material characteristics of used concrete, major, and strengthening reinforcements. The failure load and mode, yield and ultimate strengths, deflection, strain, cracking behavior as well as ductility of the beams were evaluated and discussed. To cope with the flexural behavior of the tested beams, a 3D non-linear FE model was simulated. In parametric investigations, the influence of S-NSM reinforcement, the efficacy of the S-NSM procedure, and the structural response ductility are examined. The experimental, numerical, and analytical outcomes show good agreement. The results revealed a significant increase in yield and ultimate strengths as well as improved failure modes.

Automated summary

This study investigates the performance of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with Side Near Surface Mounted (S-NSM) technology through experimental, analytical, and finite element modeling methods. Five RC beams, including one control and four strengthened specimens, were tested under four-point bending loads to evaluate their flexural performance. The study examines the influence of different S-NSM reinforcement ratios on failure load, yield and ultimate strengths, deflection, strain, cracking behavior, and ductility of the beams. The results from experimental, numerical, and analytical analyses show good agreement, indicating significant improvements in yield and ultimate strengths as well as failure modes.