Experimental investigation of concrete beams reinforced with basalt frp bars

Abstract EN

Bars fabricated from basalt fiber-reinforced polymers (BFRP) are a new material used as an alternative to steel bars in reinforced concrete to overcome corrosion problems especially in harsh and aggressive environments.

Basalt fibers also have high tensile strength and enhanced durability, in addition to moderate cost.

This research investigates experimentally the flexural behavior of BFRP reinforced beams compared to steel RC beams.

In the experimental program, six concrete beams reinforced by BFRP bars, BFRP bars and dispersed steel fibers and steel bars are tested in four-point bending until failure.

The experimental results regarding failure load, failure mechanism and deflection of beams are discussed and are compared with published experimental results.

Additionally, theoretical predictions for the moment carrying capacity and failure loads are computed using local and international codes, and were found to be consistent with the experimental results.