Publication

Abstract : Strengthening and retrofitting of concrete structures using fiber reinforced polymer wrapping is a promising technique in construction sector. Epoxy is the commonly used matrix which possess a higher rate of degradation under exposure to harsh environment. The evaluation of strength and durability of concrete cylinders confined by multi walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) incorporated epoxy with natural hybrid fiber composite systems exposed to various environmental conditions forms focus of this paper. Specimens are subjected to various environmental exposure such as elevated temperature, acidic, alkaline and sea water conditions. Two varieties of epoxy viz. neat epoxy and MWCNT modified epoxy systems are considered. Mechanical and durability properties are analyzed based on axial compressive behavior, stress strain response, visual inspection and modes of failure. The MWCNT incorporated epoxy-based hybrid FRP confined specimens exhibited a strength reduction less than 10% when compared with unexposed confined specimens under aggressive environmental conditions, while unconfined specimens showed strength reduction by 40% when compared to unexposed unconfined specimens. The MWCNT modified epoxy based hybrid confinement showed an energy absorption of 6.24 times that of unconfined specimens upon chemical exposure. Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity test revealed efficacy of confinement system in protecting concrete core from a sudden failure, which in turn increases the compressive strength of system. A statistical analysis using ANOVA was employed to find significance of these factors and confirmed with experimental results. The effect of MWCNT incorporation is significant in FRP confinement and shows the possibility of the FRP system to be adopted as a major retrofitting material in alkaline and sea water environments.