Enhancing resilience of repaired RC column using thin polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete jacketing

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of thin jacketing with polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) columns. Full-scale specimens were retrofitted using thin jackets of polypropylene fiber- reinforced concrete, steel fiber-reinforced concrete, and plain concrete, then subjected to a constant vertical load combined with cyclic horizontal loading to simulate seismic conditions. Key performance metrics, including load-bearing capacity, ductility, energy dissipation, damage index, and cra ck propagation, were assessed and compared. The findings highlight the effectiveness of fiber-reinforced concrete thin jacketing in enhancing the seismic performance of RC columns. Notably, this method significantly improves load-bearing capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation while delaying crack formation and enhancing overall seismic resilience.