Toughness of timber beams strengthened by GFRP bars and jute ropes

The aim of this study is investigating the toughness of timber beams strengthened with jute ropes and GFRP bars. Thirty-six (1000×100×70) mm timber beams are separated into three groups and tested using the four-point load technique. The experimental test was carried out to study the effects of shear and flexural strengthening on the toughness of the tested beams. One beam as a control beam (un-strengthened beam), Three groups were employed, the first group strengthened with jute ropes, the second group strengthened with GFRP bars; and the third group strengthened with jute and GFRP bars together. The results showed that the increase in ultimate loads are (82 %-300 %) for jute rope strengthening, (134 %-350 %) for GFRP bar strengthening, and (80%-250 %) for jute and GFRP together when compared with the reference beam. Additionally, it has been found that when the beam is fully strengthened, the toughness ratio is at its greatest by 350%.