Research on Shearing Performance of RC Beams Strengthened with Steel Wire-Polymer Mortar

This paper presents the results of the experimental investigation on the shearing performance of beams strengthened with steel wire-polymer mortar. The numerical results by finite element method are compared with experimental results. A total of three rectangular doubly RC beams were constructed, strengthened and tested to failure. A new convenient method to measure elongation of steel wire was proposed. Two models, named separated model and composite model respectively in software ANSYS, are used to analyze the beams. In separated model, strains of longitudinal steel bars and stirrups are in good agreement with the test results, and strains of longitudinal steel bars by composite model are also in good agreement with the test results, while stirrups strains are not, but both of steel wire deformations obtained by ANSYS analysis models are slightly different with tests results. Strengthened beams increased ultimate capacity, delayed the crack occurs and crack development. More closer and disorder cracks distribute in the strengthened beams than the unstrengthened beam. Cracks in beams by ANSYS analysis models, comparing with test results, are not very obvious.