Performance evaluation of GIP wall systems for strengthening steel-frame structures

An advanced GFRP-composite was proposed for use in a seismic-strengthening strategy for steel-frame structures with welded joints. A GIP wall system was proposed to strengthen existing steel frames and to enhance emergency recovery of damaged steel frames under cyclic loads. The GIPs were designed in separate pieces to facilitate easier transportation and construction. The primary objective of this study was to improve the seismic performance of steel frames. The proposed GIP consisted of GFRP plates in a box-like form. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed strengthening technique under quasi-static load. Three steel-frame specimens were constructed: one to evaluate the performance of an un-strengthened steel frame (OSF), and the others (RSF-1 and RSF-2) to evaluate the performance of steel frames strengthened by the GIP wall system. The experimental results showed greater stiffness and strength in RSF-1 and RSF-2 than in OSF. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the proposed GIP wall system is useful for strengthening steel frames.