Strengthening of RC Members Using Near-Surface Mounted FRP Composites: Design Overview

Strengthening of reinforced and prestressed concrete (RC and PC) members using externally bonded FRP laminates is today a well-accepted technology that is becoming popular among designers and contractors. Near-surface mounted (NSM) FRP reinforcement represents an alternative way to improve flexural and shear performance of concrete structures. In some instance, it is the only suitable technology that can be efficiently applied, for example, when upgrading beam-column joints or for flexural strengthening of compression members. In this paper, bond related issues, flexural and shear design recommendations, and design examples are presented. The paper is an attempt to provide designers with a comprehensive protocol for the rational implementation of NSM technology.