Parametric analyses of square reinforced concrete slabs strengthened by fiber-reinforced plastics

•FRP-strengthened RC slabs are investigated by finite element software ABAQUS.•Proper constitutive models are applied to simulate nonlinear material behavior.•A proper bond model is found essential to be incorporated into numerical analysis.•Parametric analyses are performed to examine the behavior of strengthened slabs.

The external bonding of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) laminates on a tension face is an effective technique for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) structures. In such application, only a limited amount of research is available on the numerical modeling that includes appropriate constitutive models to simulate the nonlinear material behavior of the structures. The finite element method was used to investigate various effects, from slab thickness, concrete, steel bars and FRP properties to the behaviors and maximum capacities of the FRP-strengthened RC slabs. This paper demonstrates the rationale consideration to design FRP-strengthened RC slabs and the proper modeling of constitutive materials and interfaces essential to simulate suitable behavior of the composites.