Compression strength of concrete cylinders reinforced with carbon fiber laminate

Composite laminates made from carbon fibers and epoxy resin (CFRP) have been obtained and used as a strengthening of concrete in the form of cylinders. The laminates were made with the use of high-modulus and high-strength carbon fibers. Different types of laminates (1D, 2D) of different thickness were wrapped and glued to the surface of concrete cylinders. The studies were focused on the compressive strength improvement of the cylinders. Compressive strengths and axial strains of unconfined and CRFP-confined concrete cylinders were compared. Compressive strength of concrete cylinders was considerably improved by wrapping the cylinders with the high-strength carbon laminates in the hoop direction.

Research highlights
► A higher axial strain of CRFP-confined concrete samples in compression tests was obtained for high-strength carbon fibers-based composite laminates in comparison to high-modulus fibers-based composites.
► The highest strain and work to failure were found for the concrete cylinders wrapped with 2D composite laminate with [45°/45°] fibers orientation related to the hoop direction.
► The most effective concrete reinforcement was obtained for laminates with carbon fibers in the form of 1D fabric.