Lap shear tests on hot-driven steel riveted connections strengthened by means of C-FRPs

An experimental study devoted to investigate the use of C-FRPs for repairing and strengthening lap shear hot-driven riveted connections is presented. Two set of tests were carried out: (i) double strap tests on both butt and lapped plates connected by C-FRP laminas; (ii) lap shear tests on riveted connections strengthened by C-FRP laminas. The efficacy of C-FRPs was assessed in terms of strength and ultimate displacement. An analytical model based on the component method for the prediction of the strengthened riveted connections was developed on the basis of the experimental outcomes. Finally, design criteria for the strengthening intervention based on the analytical and testing predictions are provided.