The effect of defect size on the integrity of CFRP-confined concrete column

Abstract This paper explores the effect of defect size on the integrity of CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer)-confined concrete, which governs the strength and deformability of the structural element. Qualitative theoretical analysis, experimental investigation and numerical simulations are carried out and compared to investigate the mechanical behavior and failure mode of CFRP confined concrete column with initial defects under axial and eccentric compression. The variation of criticality defect is investigated by varying the layer number of CFRP and cross-section size of concrete columns. The results demonstrated that for a CFRP-confined concrete column, the propagation of the initial defect may not lead to global failure. In general, such a phenomenon alters the confining pressure provided by the FRP, leading to stress redistribution and weakening of the structure. Deformation behavior and final failure greatly depend on the initial defect size.