Axial and flexural performance of square RC columns wrapped with CFRP under eccentric loading

The majority of studies on fiber-reinforced-polymer (FRP) strengthened concrete columns deal with columns of a circular cross section. However, most concrete columns in the field have square or rectangular cross sections and resist eccentric loads. This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the performance of carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymer (CFRP) wrapped square reinforced concrete (RC) columns under eccentric loading. The influence of the number of CFRP layers, the magnitude of eccentricity, and the presence of vertical CFRP straps were investigated by testing 16 specimens. The specimens had the dimensions 200 × 200 × 800 mm and round corners with a radius of 34 mm. Twelve specimens were tested as columns and four specimens as beams. The results of this study showed that CFRP wrapping enhanced the load-carrying capacity and ductility of the columns under eccentric loading. Furthermore, the application of the vertical CFRP straps significantly improved the performance of the columns with large eccentricity