Parametric finite element analysis to investigate flexural behavior of BFRP-FRC beams

Abstract

Recently, most of researchers are focusing on the use of ecofriendly and natural fibers for reinforcement in concrete. One of the most recent materials that is being used is Basalt fiber due to its low cost and exceptional characteristics over glass and carbon fibers. This material is tested to be used as alternative to conventional steel reinforcement bars in reinforced concrete structures also. Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) bars are relatively new type of FRP reinforcement material. The present paper is a parametric study for flexural behavior of concrete members reinforced using BFRP rebars using finite element analysis (FEA). FEA software – Abaqus is used for numerical simulation of selected beams. A comparison between experimentally evaluated and numerically obtained load vs midspan deflection response of beam is presented. Due to a good agreement between these two approaches, FE model was used to conduct parametric study. The parameters that were changed from experimentally tested beams are number and size (diameter) of BFRP bars to study effect of reinforcement detailing and reinforcement ratio on load vs. midspan deflection response. A comparison between experimentally determined and numerically evaluated load vs midspan deflection response was carried out and found to be consistent with mean absolute percentage error of 4.80%.