Conclusions

 Based on the information presented the following conclusions can be drawn:

* This new approach is based on the theory that concrete cracking results in the
 formation of micro columns in concrete that under the right conditions fail due to
 buckling. The structural mechanics behind this new idea are easy to understand which
 is different than other approaches that are typically used.

* The stress-strain curves constructed using the concrete model, were fitted to the data
 obtained from grid confined cylinders. The model was tuned to that specific group of
 data presented in detail in chapter 3.

* It was also evident that the model needs to be improved and its parameter need to be
 further investigated. The amount of experimental data was limited and therefore more
 tests for calibration of the parameters are needed.

* The effect of increasing the number of CFRP grid layers to the cylinders had a
 positive effect on both the strength of the confined concrete as well as its ultimate
 strain. The effect on the strength was small (less than 5% increase from two to six
 layers). A very significant effect on the ultimate strain of the confined concrete was
 calculated by the model. The concrete with the six layers of CFRP grid had
 approximately 89% more ductility than the cylinder with two CFRP grid layers.