Experimental and statistical investigation of a new concrete-composite beam with encased polymer tube wrapped by FRP

A new concrete-composite beam with high mechanical performances to weight ratio is developed in this study. The proposed design technique consists to embed a cylindrical polymer tube wrapped by a GFRP Jacket in the mechanically ineffective concrete tensile zone. An experimental investigation is carried out on composite beams under bending loads until failure to evaluate the flexural capacity and the corresponding failure mechanisms. Based on the experimental results, statistical and preliminary reliability analyses using the FORM method are performed to assess the safety margin of the new beam. The confrontation between test and simulation results shows a satisfactory agreement, and represents a promising revelation regarding the improvement in terms of strength and ductility of such design compared to conventional reinforced concrete beams with traditional one.