ABSTRACT
In the current research the interface response of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) adhesively bonded on concrete substrates is investigated considering two scenarios with and without corroded reinforcement. The investigation includes Near Surface Mounted (NSM) CFRP strengthening schemes embedded to concrete using two-component epoxy adhesive layers, a conventional and a toughened one. The bond-slip behavior of the interfaces between the concrete and FRPs was investigated with a modified double shear test configuration. The experimental results indicate a different effect of the toughened adhesive on the response of the interface as the interface is not affected by corrosion. The crack propagation of the interface is depicted by two different distinct branches, a fully elastic up to the peak shear stress-strain, and a quasi-stable branch up to final pull out of the composite. The reduced stiffness and high energy absorbing capacity toughened adhesive epoxies are proven to be optimal retrofitting solutions for concrete applications.
