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The previous research introduced an innovative retrofitting technique for reinforced concrete beams using modularized steel plates. This technique enhances structural performance, offering a lightweight solution compared to conventional retrofitting methods using steel plates, and accommodates construction errors. However, a challenge arises due to the lack of integrity between unit steel plates. To address this, this study proposes a novel method of connecting each steel plate with bolts. The experimental results show that retrofitted beams achieved a maximum load of 311.9 kN, roughly 1.6 times that of non-retrofitted specimens, with the ductility of retrofitted beams being 3.3 times that of the non-retrofitted beams. Additionally, there was a 25% increase in load capacity for beams retrofitted with interconnected steel plates compared to those without connections between unit steel plates.
Ro et al. (Tue,) studied this question.