FRP Design Methodology and Applications for Blast and Impact-Resistant Structures-Considerations for Design of FRP Retrofitted Walls and Slabs Subjected to Blast Loading (Recorded Presentation)

Considerations for Design of FRP Retrofitted Walls and Slabs Subjected to Blast Loading (Recorded Presentation)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Eric Jacques presented on enhancing blast resistance in infrastructure using FRP-strengthened reinforced concrete. He emphasized our civilian infrastructure's vulnerability to explosive events and the necessity of retrofitting rather than replacing structures entirely. The focus was on fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) retrofits to bolster such infrastructure, illustrated by an experimental study using a shock tube at Virginia Tech. <br /><br />He discussed the benefits of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) application on one-way reinforced concrete wall strips, highlighting their ability to improve structural resistance without extensive replacements. Jacques detailed the testing of 80 and 120-mm thick reinforced concrete panels retrofitted with CFRP and reinforced with mechanical anchors to prevent debonding. Results showed that anchors increased strain capacity and delayed debonding, improving blast resilience. He stressed the importance of considering rebound effects in certain structures to prevent catastrophic failures. <br /><br />Through these insights, Dr. Jacques provided a clearer understanding of optimizing blast risk management by leveraging advanced material applications in disaster-prone infrastructure contexts.

Keywords

blast resistance

FRP-strengthened concrete

fiber-reinforced polymer

CFRP retrofits

structural resilience

disaster-prone infrastructure