Parametric Optimization of RC Beams Strengthened with FRCM Using FE Modelling and Response Surface Methodology

This study focuses on the numerical and statistical analyses to predict the mid-span moment capacity of RC beams strengthened with fabric reinforcement cementitious mortar (FRCM) laminate. A finite element model (FEM) has been built to simulate twelve RC beams strengthened with two types of FRCM, namely Polyparaphenylene benzobisoxazole (PBO) FRCM and Carbon (C) FRCM. The FE models were verified based on experimental work available in the literature. The finite element models have shown a good agreement with experimental results in terms of maximum load-carrying capacity, load-deflection curves, and concrete strain values. The numerical simulation was followed by a parametric study on 42 models using face centred response surface methodology (RSM). Combining FEM and RSM, a novel mathematical model has been proposed to predict the mid-span moment capacity of the RC beams strengthened with FRCM. The results of the proposed model have shown optimal predictability with R2 equal to 90.34%. In addition, the proposed model agreed with the ACI design procedures and the existing literature.