Experimental Behavior of Strengthened RC Columns Under Cyclic Loading

In this study, four scaled circular-shaped bridge columns were established, three of which were retrofitted using three different strengthening methods to wrap or confine the columns. Specimens were subjected to a constant axial load and a cyclically reversed horizontal force. Results of the investigation on experimental phenomena and data, showed that the three reinforcement materials served a significant function in confining the core concrete of columns for strength improvement of core concrete, thus resulting in enhanced ductility compared with an unstrengthened column. Among the three strengthening materials, the column is strengthened by Aramid fiber-reinforced polymer (AFRP) exhibited the best performance in seismic events.