CFRP grid has been investigated for use as confinement reinforcement in FRP reinforced

concrete members.

 The grid was used in different configurations to confine concrete in the

compression zone and improve flexural member ductility. The grid was used to confine

concrete cylinders that were tested in axial compression. The results showed a significant

increase in the ultimate axial strain of the CFRP confined concrete of approximately

100%. Another application of the grid was the embedment of grid tubes in the

compression zone of beams that resulted in an improvement of the ductility factors of

approximately 20%. The grid was also used to fully wrap concrete piles that were cast in

place or spun cast. The ductility of the piles was improved by as much as 20%.

 Therefore improvement of the member flexural ductility by confining the concrete

in the compression zone is feasible. However the improvement in the ductility of the

concrete elements was not enough to compare favorably with the ductility of steel

reinforced concrete member. More improvement is required for the FRP reinforced

members to be accepted and used to replace steel reinforced members.


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