Engr.

Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

M.Sc. Thesis Research Proposal

For

M.Sc. in Structural Engineering

Department of Civil Engineering, UET Peshawar

Submitted By:

Engr. Bilal Khan

(B.Sc. Civil Engineering)

Supervisor:

Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada

Department of Civil Engineering, UET Peshawar.

BOARD OF ADVANCED STUDIES AND RESEARCH

University of Engineering and Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

Proposal title Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using

External Steel
Department and Specialization Structural Engineering
Student Name Engr. Bilal Khan
Father’s Name -----
Contact No -------
Email [email protected]
Registration No 17PWCIV4857
Date of registration in the program Fall-2022
Research Supervisor Dr. Akhtar Gul
Co-Supervisor Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada

Courses Studied

S. No. Course Code Course Title Grade

1. CE-5110 Advance Structural Analysis-I A

2. CE-5112 Advance Mechanics of Materials B

3. CE-5192 Advance Concrete Technology B

4. CE-5115 Advance Concrete Design awaiting

5. CE-5152 Pre-stressed Concrete Design awaiting

6. CE-5133 Foundation Engineering A

7. CE-5130 Advance Soil Mechanics-I In progress

8. CE-5155 Finite Element Analysis of Structural systems In progress

9. CAS-EP-520 Research Methodology In progress

1. Summary

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

The thesis titled "Strengthening of RC Beams using External Steel" focuses on strengthening of
Reinforced concrete beams for flexure and shear using external steel. The study comprises a
comprehensive literature review that examines various techniques for strengthening RC beams,
such as Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP), Near Surface Mounted (NSM), Ferrocement, and
external steel elements. This review serves as a foundation for the experimental investigations
conducted in this research.

The experimental setup involves the design and construction of RC beam specimens, the
application of external steel using appropriate bonding techniques, and load testing to evaluate
their performance. The objectives are to address the challenge of welding failure and improve
load-carrying capacity of the RC beams.

The anticipated outcomes of this study include increased load-carrying capacity, improved
deformation behavior, and enhanced energy absorption capabilities of RC beams strengthened
with external steel. These findings will provide valuable insights for the design and retrofitting of
RC structures, allowing engineers to select appropriate strengthening techniques and improve the
overall structural performance. Furthermore, the study aims to propose practical guidelines and
recommendations for the implementation of external steel strengthening techniques. These
guidelines will cover aspects such as surface preparation, material selection, installation
techniques, and quality control measures.

The significance of this research lies in its contribution to the field of structural engineering. The
outcomes of this study will help enhance the safety, durability, and cost-effectiveness of RC
structures by providing effective solutions for strengthening existing RC beams using external
steel. Additionally, the findings will contribute to sustainable infrastructure development,
prolong the service life of structures, and advance knowledge in the field of RC beam
strengthening.

2. Introduction
Reinforced Concrete (RC) structural members play a critical role in the construction industry,
providing strength and durability to various infrastructure projects. However, over time, these
RC elements experience a loss of capacity due to a range of actions they are subjected to (Gul et

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

al., 2021). The deterioration of RC high-rise buildings, particularly those constructed in the early
20th century, has become a significant concern (Abuodeh et al., 2021).

Numerous studies have identified various causes of structural deterioration, such as

environmental degradation, changes in design codes, deficiencies in design and construction, and
overloading or extreme loading conditions (Gul et al., 2021; Abuodeh et al., 2021).
Environmental factors, including the deterioration of concrete, corrosion of steel, moisture,
chemicals, and temperature fluctuations, significantly contribute to the weakening of RC
structures. Moreover, the introduction of new design codes or changes in the code of practice can
render older structures vulnerable to structural deficiencies.

Consequently, the repair and strengthening of damaged reinforced-concrete buildings have

become a critical issue in the field of structural engineering (Koçak et al., n.d.). In response to
this challenge, several techniques have been developed to enhance the performance and extend
the service life of RC structures. These techniques include plate bonding, external prestressing,
external unbonded reinforcement, Near Surface Mount (NSM) and externally bonding with FRP
composites, Ferrocement, and Steel mesh-wires (Khalil et al., 2008).

This study aims to address the challenges associated with the use of externally bonded steel
elements for strengthening existing RC beams. Through experimental investigations, the
effectiveness of externally bonded steel in flexural and shear strengthening will be evaluated.
Additionally, the issue of welding failure at the point of application will be addressed, and
efficient solutions will be identified to ensure the durability and reliability of this strengthening
technique.

3. The Problem Statement

The use of externally bonded steel elements for strengthening existing reinforced concrete beams
poses a significant challenge due to the issue of welding failure at the point of application. There
is a need to conduct further investigations to address this issue and find effective solutions for
ensuring the durability and reliability of such strengthening techniques.

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

4. Aim and Objectives

The key objectives of this research study are;

 To perform an experimental investigation on the effectiveness of using externally bonded
steel for the flexural and shear strengthening of reinforced concrete beams.
 To address the issue of failure of externally bonded steel bars at welding points by
identifying an efficient, cost-effective, and feasible solution.

5. Significance of the study

Following are the key aspects highlighting the significance of this study:

 Addressing a Critical Issue: The issue of welding failure at the point of application in the
use of externally bonded steel for RC beam strengthening is a critical challenge. By
conducting in-depth investigations and finding effective solutions to mitigate this problem,
this study aims to overcome a significant hurdle in the implementation of this strengthening
technique. The outcomes of this research will contribute to ensuring the durability and
reliability of externally bonded steel strengthening methods, enhancing the safety and
longevity of RC structures.
 Practical Application: The findings and recommendations of this study will provide
valuable insights for structural engineers, researchers, and practitioners involved in the repair
and strengthening of RC beams. The identification of efficient, cost-effective, and feasible
solutions to welding failure will offer practical guidance for the implementation of external
steel strengthening techniques in real-world projects. This study has the potential to influence
industry practices and improve the overall quality and performance of strengthened RC
structures.
 Advancement of Knowledge: The proposed research study will contribute to the existing
body of knowledge in the field of structural engineering, specifically in the area of RC beam
strengthening. The outcomes will expand the understanding of the behaviour and
performance of strengthened RC beams, paving the way for further advancements and
refinements in strengthening techniques.
 Enhanced Structural Performance: Strengthening techniques play a crucial role in
improving the structural performance of existing RC beams. This study aims to enhance the

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

flexural capacity and overall structural integrity of RC beams. The successful implementation
of external steel strengthening methods will result in structures that can withstand higher
loads, exhibit improved crack patterns, and provide increased resilience against
environmental factors and extreme loading conditions.
 Sustainable Infrastructure: This study will contribute to the preservation and utilization of
existing infrastructure, reducing the need for costly and environmentally intensive new
construction. The findings of this study will support the principles of sustainability by
promoting the efficient and responsible use of resources.

6. Literature Review
Various methods have been developed and investigated for the strengthening of reinforced
concrete (RC) beams.
Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) has gained significant attention as a strengthening material for
RC beams. Siddika et al. (2019) conducted a comprehensive review on the behavior of FRP-
strengthened RC beams under different loading conditions. They highlighted the properties,
features, and applications of various FRP materials such as glass FRP (GFRP), carbon FRP
(CFRP), aramid FRP (AFRP), and basalt FRP (BFRP). The study concluded that FRP possesses
high tensile strength and can significantly increase the ultimate strength of RC beams. The Near
Surface Mounted (NSM) technique was found to be particularly reliable, offering benefits such
as improved strength and delayed debonding failure. Furthermore, wrapping RC beams with
externally bonded (EB) FRP layers at an angle and using additional anchorages were found to
enhance shear and torsion resistance capacities. However, it was noted that FRP-strengthened
beams may be susceptible to premature debonding, which can be mitigated through careful
surface preparation, NSM, or anchorage with EB FRP.

NSM is another popular technique for RC beam strengthening. Xing et al. (2018) conducted an
experimental investigation on RC beams strengthened with NSM glass fiber reinforced polymer
(GFRP) bars and aluminum alloy (AA) bars. The study revealed that NSM reinforcement led to
enhanced flexural capacity and energy absorption capacity of the RC beams. GFRP bars
increased the ultimate load by up to 134%, while AA bars increased it by up to 26%. The beams
strengthened with AA bars exhibited ductile failure, whereas those strengthened with GFRP bars

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

showed less ductile or even brittle failure, along with higher NSM reinforcement ratios.
However, debonding issues were observed in some of the GFRP-strengthened beams.

Ferrocement has also been explored as a strengthening technique for RC beams. Khan et al.
(2013) conducted an experimental study on under-reinforced RC beams strengthened with
different Ferrocement techniques. The investigation compared the effectiveness of cast-in-situ
Ferro-mesh layers, precast Ferrocement Laminate A, and Ferrocement Laminate B. The study
concluded that strengthening through cast-in-situ Ferro-mesh layers was the most efficient
technique, while longer development lengths negatively affected load carrying capacity but
positively influenced initial stiffness without significantly impacting ductility.

In addition to these techniques, the use of external steel elements for RC beam strengthening has
been investigated. Gul et al. (2021) conducted an experimental investigation on the flexural
strengthening of RC beams using externally welded steel angles and bars. The study
demonstrated that the load-carrying capacity of the strengthened beams increased significantly,
with improvements of up to 238% with steel angles and 106% with steel bars compared to
control samples. The strengthened specimens exhibited uniform crack patterns, a strong bond
with existing concrete, and favorable flexural failure modes. However, the failure of the outer
steel bar at the welding point was observed at the ultimate load, indicating a potential limitation.

7. Research Methodology
The flow chart below illustrates the breakdown and sequence of the entire research
process that will be followed.

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

Specimen
Literature Review Material Collection
preparation

Conclusions and
Data Interpretation Specimen Testing
Recommendations

8. Expected Results and their Utilization

The anticipated outcomes of the proposed study and their potential utilization are as follows:

1. Performance Enhancement: Enhanced load-carrying capacity, improved deformations,

and increased energy absorption of RC beams through external steel strengthening.
Design and retrofitting of RC structures for improved load resistance and deformation
performance.
2. Mitigation of Welding Failure: The study aims to address the issue of welding failure at
the point of application of external steel elements. The anticipated results include the
identification of efficient and feasible solutions to mitigate welding failure, ensuring the
durability and reliability of the strengthening technique. These findings can be utilized as
practical guidelines for engineers and practitioners to prevent welding failure during the
implementation of external steel strengthening methods.
3. Guidelines and Recommendations: Based on the research outcomes, the study is
expected to generate guidelines and recommendations for the successful implementation
of externally bonded steel strengthening methods. These guidelines will encompass
factors such as surface preparation, material selection, installation techniques, and quality
control measures. They can be utilized as reference documents for practitioners, aiding
them in achieving optimal results while ensuring the durability and reliability of
strengthened RC beams.

9. Experimental Setup/Equipment Required

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

To conduct the experimental investigation on this study, the following setup and equipment are
required:

1. RC Beam Specimens: Preparing a set of RC beam specimens with dimensions and

reinforcement details as per the experimental design.
2. External Steel Elements: Acquiring external steel elements such as steel angles, steel bars,
or other suitable configurations for bonding to the RC beams. Ensuring that the steel
elements meet the required specifications in terms of dimensions, material properties, and
weldability.
3. Welding Equipment: Utilization of welding equipment capable of providing the necessary
heat and power for bonding the external steel elements to the RC beams. This includes a
welding machine, electrodes, and appropriate safety equipment for the welding process.
4. Load Testing Setup: Arranging a load testing setup that enables the application of
controlled loads to the RC beam specimens. This may include a hydraulic or mechanical
testing machine capable of applying the desired loads, along with load sensors and data
acquisition systems to measure and record the applied loads and corresponding deformations.
5. Measuring Instruments: Using a range of measuring instruments to collect data during
experimental tests. This may include strain gauges for measuring strain in the RC beams,
displacement sensors for measuring beam deflections, and load cells for measuring applied
loads.
6. Surface Preparation Tools: Preparing the surface of the RC beams and the external steel
elements for bonding. This may involve tools such as grinders, wire brushes, and cleaning
agents to ensure proper surface roughness and cleanliness for effective bonding.
7. Materials and Accessories: Collecting reinforcing bars, concrete mixtures, and other
materials required for the preparation of the RC beam specimens.
8. Safety Equipment: Ensuring the availability and use of appropriate safety equipment
throughout the experimental setup. This includes personal protective equipment (PPE) such
as gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing, as well as safety measures to prevent any
potential hazards during the experimental tests.

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

10. Budget
The expected costs for the various research materials are provided as follows:
Quantities of Materials
Bill of Quantities

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
 Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

11. Work Schedule

Time (Months)
S. No Activity
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct

1 Literature Review

2 Material Collection

3 Specimen preparation

4 Specimen Testing

5 Data Interpretation

6 Conclusions and Recommendations

7 Thesis Writing

The proposed study is scheduled to commence in April 2023 and is estimated to

span approximately 7 months, with completion expected in October 2023. The
project's activities will be organized according to the following schedule.

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

12. References
[1] Gul, A., Alam, B., Ahmed, W., Wahab, N., Shahzada, K., Irfan Badrashi, Y., Wali Khan, S.,
& Khan, M. N. A. (2021). Strengthening and Characterization of Existing Reinforced
Concrete Beams for Flexure by Effective Utilization of External Steel Elements. Advances in
Structural Engineering, 24(2), 243–251. https://doi.org/10.1177/1369433220950614
[2] Önal, M. M., Zengin, B., Koçak, A., & Doran, B. (2014). An experimental investigation on
flexural behavior of RC beams strengthened with different techniques. KSCE Journal of
Civil Engineering, 18(7), 2162–2169. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12205-014-1353-x
[3] Khalil, H. S., Soliman, H. S., Sallam, H. E. M., & Shaheen, H. H. (2008). Flexural
strengthening of reinforced concrete beams using external unbonded steel bars. ERJ.
Engineering Research Journal, 31(4), 407-412.
[4] Siddika, A., Mamun, Md. A. A., Alyousef, R., & Amran, Y. H. M. (2019). Strengthening of
reinforced concrete beams by using fiber-reinforced polymer composites: A review. Journal
of Building Engineering, 25, 100798. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2019.100798
[5] Khan, S. U., Rafeeqi, S. F. A., & Ayub, T. (2013). Strengthening of RC beams in flexure
using ferrocement. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology. Transactions of Civil
Engineering, 37(C), 353.
[6] Olajumoke, A. M., & Dundu, M. (n.d.). Methods for flexural strengthening of reinforced
concrete elements using steel plates.
[7] Xing, G., Chang, Z., & Ozbulut, O. E. (2018). Behavior and failure modes of reinforced
concrete beams strengthened with NSM GFRP or aluminum alloy bars. Structural Concrete,
19(4), 1023–1035. https://doi.org/10.1002/suco.201700099

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

Undertaking
It is hereby certified that the research work entitled "Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete
Beams using External Steel" has been independently completed by me. This work is original
and has not been previously submitted, in whole or in part, elsewhere. All materials derived from
other research have been appropriately cited and recognized..

_________________
Engr. Bilal Khan
Reg # 17PWCIV4857

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada
Engr. Bilal Khan Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams using External Steel

Name Signature and Date

Student Engr. Bilal Khan

Supervisor
Dr. Akhtar Gul
Remarks
Recommendation of the
Post-Graduate Advisor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf
Remarks

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad

Recommendation and
signature of Project Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer
Research Evaluation
Committee (PREC)
Remarks: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf

Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada

Approval by the HOD

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad
Remarks:

Recommendation of the
Prof. Dr. Hamid Ullah
Secretary BOASAR
Recommendation of the
Dean of faculty CAM Prof. Dr. Qaisar Ali
Engineering
Approval by the Vice
Prof. Dr. Iftikhar Hussain
Chancellor

Prof. Dr. Irshad Ahmad Prof. Dr. Amjad Naseer Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Prof. Dr. Khan Shahzada