Strengthening of Steel Structures

Abstract

The use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials in the reinforcement of concrete structures has shown important results. These interventions are based on the application of carbon fiber, glass, or aramid impregnated with thermosetting polymers. The effectiveness of these interventions is demonstrated both by extensive research in the laboratory and by applications to existing structures.

Even metal structures may require an intervention of reinforcement due to changes in land uses, increases in loads, corrosion, or issues related to the phenomenon of fatigue. Currently, reinforcement methods used to restore the capacity of metal structures are based on the application of steel plates to the original structure. These types of interventions have negative aspects, such as new loads on the structures and oxidation phenomena.

The use of welding is not recommended, considering the possible occurrence of the phenomenon of fatigue due to any welding defects.

The problems related to the use of these “traditional methods” are outdated in the interventions that are characterized by the use of FRP composite materials. The fibers have superior mechanical and physical characteristics, and are distinguished by their considerable tensile strength.

The advantages of using FRP for the reinforcement of steel structures are analyzed in this chapter.