FRP Strengthening of Underground Reinforced Concrete Structures

Corrosion of the reinforcing steel is an extensive problem that reduces the service life of the structure and results in costly repairs and safety hazards. As a result, such deteriorated concrete structures must be replaced or extensively repaired, rehabilitated or strengthened. As a result, engineers worldwide are continuously seeking durable materials and robust systems to strengthen structures to reduce the financial costs and improve the service life of our damaged and deteriorated infrastructure.
The ENMAX’s Calgary’s downtown power supply network and general distribution assets, most of the underground structures (manholes and transformer vaults) are significantly aged (over 40+ years), and some show signs of deterioration are in serious need of repair. Therefore, strengthening these structures is critical for the safety and livelihoods of Calgarians. Therefore, ENMAX would like to investigate the use of various non-corrosive, high strength to weight ratio Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) systems on these structures to ascertain if it is an appropriate strengthening method. This project will evaluate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of two techniques using externally bonded (EB-CFRP sheets) and Near-Surface Mounted (NSM-CFRP strips) systems by strengthening RC walls dismantled from existing deteriorated manholes and transformer vaults from the Calgary underground network.

Faculty Supervisor:

Raafat El-Hacha

Student:

Partner:

ENMAX Power Corporation

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Utilities

University:

University of Calgary

Program: