Retrofitting of Deficient RC Cantilever Slabs Using GFRP Strips

Despite many studies on beams and slabs strengthened using fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) plates, no study has been reported on the strengthening of RC cantilever slabs (e.g., canopies and balconies) using FRP materials. This paper presents the results of an experimental study of the feasibility of strengthening deficient RC cantilever slabs by bonding glass FRP (GFRP) strips/sheets on the top surface (the tension side). As the key to the success of this strengthening method is a proper way of anchoring the GFRP strips into the supporting wall and the slab, the effectiveness of different anchorage systems was the focus of the experiments. Based on the test results, a simple and effective method is identified in which the GFRP strips are anchored into the walls through horizontal slots and onto the slab using fiber anchors.