Structural and economic optimization of strengthening techniques for corroded RC columns via HPCs and ferrocement jackets

This research aims to experimentally and numerically identify the best method to strengthen RC columns affected by reinforcement corrosion. The efficacy of the proposed strengthening procedures was evaluated using a mix of experimental and numerical analyses. The experimental component has five groups with a total of eleven RC columns. Type of strengthening concrete, volume of additional vertical bars, and number of used meshes were the main parameters studied herein. The findings indicated that the different reinforcement techniques markedly enhanced the failure load of the tested columns. The failure loads of the strengthened columns were more than the defective one by about 66% to 79. In addition, these two types of strengthening made the failure load greater than the control column by about 31–42%. In order to confirm the findings from the experimental tests, a finite element analysis was performed utilizing the ABAQUS software. Ultimately, a strong relationship was found between experimental and numerical results. From a construction engineering perspective, the study highlights the practical feasibility of using cost-effective strengthening systems to rehabilitate corroded RC columns in infrastructure projects. Additionally, the results provide a foundation for integrating structural performance and economic considerations in selecting retrofit strategies.