Out of plane behavior of aerated concrete walls strengthened with CFRP strips

The objective of present study was to investigate the out-of-plane behavior of aerated concrete walls under out-of-plane loading after being reinforced with CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) strips. Aerated concrete walls are mostly used in reinforced concrete structures, which is damaged under dynamic forces such as earth quake and put in danger to living people in structures. In many experimental studies proof that infill walls have high strength against to lateral forces acting on plane. But out of plane strength against to lateral force is quite low. Therefore an experimental study designed to increase the out of plane strength of the aerated concrete walls and improve their behavior. Out-of-plane loading activity in the CFRP anchors and the effects on general behavior were also investigated. Eleven test specimens were tested, which consisted of one reference specimen and ten reinforced specimens. Variables examined were the placement shape of CFRP strips on the surface of aerated concrete wall and whether anchorage was applied or not. CFRP strips exhibited differences in geometry and thickness such as 50 mm, 100 mm and 150 mm. Anchorage was applied considering that CFRP strips would tend to peel off from the surface after a certain amount of strain was exceeded. Test results were discussed and evaluated by taking into consideration the ratio of CFRP strips to total wall surface area, strip width, geometry and anchoring application. The analysis of experimental data revealed that reinforcement with CFRP strips positively affects out-of-plane behavior of brick-fill walls and that the method is easily applicable. Depending on their bonding geometry and anchorage application, CFRP strips were observed to increase strength, ductility and energy dissipation.