Cyclic Performance of GFRP-RC T-Connections with Different Anchorage and Connection Details

This study investigated the effects of different configurations of connection reinforcement and anchorages on the cyclic behavior of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) reinforced-concrete (RC) exterior beam-column connections (T-connections). Three full-scale GFRP-RC T-connections were tested under reversed cyclic loading. One connection was detailed with 90-degree hooked anchorage and horizontal stirrups, while the other two connections were detailed with L-shaped anchorage by placing additional Z- or U-shaped bars at the connection region. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of the anchorage type (90-degree hook or L-shaped) at the end of the longitudinal bars of the beam on the cyclic performance (strength, ductility, and energy dissipation) of GFRP-RC T-connections. Moreover, the anchorage performances in terms of anchorage resistance, bond stress-slip of bars within the joint were evaluated and compared with each other. Test results indicated that all the connections passed a 5.09% drift ratio without any loss of strength. The addition of U-bars into the L-shaped anchorage connection significantly improved the strength, ductility, and energy dissipation compared with the other two connections.