• Computers and Concrete
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• v.14 no.6
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• pp.711-725
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• 2014

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the behavior and the strength of SRG (Steel Reinforced Grout) externally strengthened Reinforced Concrete (RC) beams by using a nonlinear numerical analysis. The numerical simulation was carried out by using a three-dimensional (3D) finite element model. An interface element with a suitable damage model was used to model the connection between concrete surface and SRG reinforcing layer. The reliability of the finite element 3D-model was checked using experimental data obtained on a set of three RC beams. The parameters taken into consideration were the external configuration, with or without U-end anchorages, the concrete strength, the amount of internal tensile steel reinforcement. Conclusions were made concerning the strength and the ductility of the strengthened beams by varying the parameters and on the effectiveness of the SRG reinforcing system applied with two types of external strengthening configuration.

• Steel and Composite Structures
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• v.34 no.6
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• pp.877-889
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• 2020

This work features the outcomes of an empirical investigation into the characteristics of steel reinforced grout (SRG) composite - concrete interfaces. The parameters varied were loading rate, densities of steel fibres and types of load displacement responses or measurements (slip and machine grips). The following observations and results were derived from standard single-lap shear tests. Interfacial debonding of SRG - concrete joints is a function of both fracture of matrix along the bond interface and slippage of fibre. A change in the loading rate results in a variation in peak load (P_max) and the correlative stress (σ_max), slip and machine grips readings at measured peak load. Further analysis of load responses revealed that the behaviour of load responses is shaped by loading rate, fibre density as well as load response measurement variable. Notably, the out-of-plane displacement at peak load increased with increments in load rates and were independent of specimen fibre densities.

• Earthquakes and Structures
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• v.17 no.2
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• pp.205-219
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• 2019

In Peru, construction of dwellings using confined masonry walls (CM) has a high percentage of acceptance within many sectors of the population. It is estimated that only in Lima, 80% of the constructions use CM and at least 70% of these are informal constructions. This mean that they are built without proper technical advice and generally have a high seismic vulnerability. One way to reduce this vulnerability is by reinforcing the walls. However, despite the existence of some reinforcement methods in the market, not all of them can be applied massively because there are other parameters to take into account, as economical, criteria for seismic improvement, reinforcement ratio, etc. Therefore, in this paper the feasibility of using five reinforcement techniques has been studied and compared. These reinforcements are: welded mesh (WM), glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP), carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), steel bar wire mesh (CSM), steel reinforced grout (SRG). The Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method can be useful to evaluate the most optimal strengthening technique for a fast, effective and massive use plan in Peru. The results of using MCDM with 10 criteria indicate that the Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and Steel Reinforced Grout (SRG) methods are the most suitable for a massive reinforcement application in Lima.

• Earthquakes and Structures
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• v.10 no.1
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• pp.53-71
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• 2016

Unconventional computer vision and image processing techniques offer significant advantages for experimental applications to shaking table testing, as they allow the overcoming of most typical problems of traditional sensors, such as encumbrance, limitations in the number of devices, range restrictions and risk of damage of the instruments in case of specimen failure. In this study, a 3D motion optical system was applied to analyze shake table tests carried out, up to failure, on a natural-scale masonry structure retrofitted with steel reinforced grout (SRG). The system makes use of wireless passive spherical retro-reflecting markers positioned on several points of the specimen, whose spatial displacements are recorded by near-infrared digital cameras. Analyses in the time domain allowed the monitoring of the deformations of the wall and of crack development through a displacement data processing (DDP) procedure implemented ad hoc. Fundamental frequencies and modal shapes were calculated in the frequency domain through an integrated methodology of experimental/operational modal analysis (EMA/OMA) techniques with 3D finite element analysis (FEA). Meaningful information on the structural response (e.g., displacements, damage development, and dynamic properties) were obtained, profitably integrating the results from conventional measurements. Furthermore, the comparison between 3D motion system and traditional instruments (i.e., displacement transducers and accelerometers) permitted a mutual validation of both experimental data and measurement methods.