Investigation of insulated FRP-wrapped reinforced concrete columns in fire

Research has demonstrated that fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs) can be used efficiently and safely in strengthening and rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures. However, the use of FRPs in buildings has been limited because relatively little is known about the behaviour in fire of reinforced concrete structural members that have been strengthened with FRP systems. This paper presents the recent results of an ongoing experimental study of the fire performance of FRP-wrapped reinforced concrete circular columns. The results of fire tests on two columns are presented, one of which was tested without supplemental fire protection, and one of which was protected by a supplemental fire protection system applied to the exterior of the FRP-strengthening system. The primary objective of these tests was to compare the fire behaviour of the two FRP-wrapped columns and to investigate the effectiveness of the supplemental insulation system. The thermal and structural behaviour of the two columns are discussed. The results show that, although FRP systems are sensitive to high temperatures, satisfactory fire endurance ratings can be achieved for reinforced concrete columns that are strengthened with FRP systems by providing adequate supplemental fire protection. In particular, the insulated FRP-strengthened column in this study was able to resist elevated temperatures during the fire tests for at least 90 min longer than the equivalent uninsulated FRP-strengthened column.