Bridge pier extension with carbon-fiber reinforced polymer flexural reinforcement: Experimental tests and three-dimensional finite element modeling

This paper presents a study on extension of bridge pier cap beams reinforced with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) systems. Experimental tests and numerical modeling of quarter-scaled reinforced concrete hammerhead non-prismatic pier cap beams, extended on edges and reinforced with different CFRP systems, are presented. Five specimens were tested to evaluate the effect of various CFRP systems on ultimate strength, stiffness, and ductility. It was found that the failure mode changes as different CFRP systems are applied, which consequently impacted the ultimate strength and ductility of extended cap beams. A three-dimensional finite element (FE) model was developed and presented in this paper. Failure mode and load-deflection response were successfully captured using the proposed FE model. Comparison and discussion of flexural capacities predicted using the FE model and current guideline were presented.