Retrofitting Of Reinforced Brick Concrete Structures

Abstract

The architectural heritage of the subcontinent is richly adorned with Reinforced Brick Concrete (RBC) structures, a testament to a construction tradition that prevailed until the late 1990s before the advent of Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC). However, the relentless march of time has not been kind to these edifices. The once robust RBC structures now exhibit signs of diminished durability and strength, necessitating urgent intervention to restore their former resilience. This thesis delves into the critical process of retrofitting these aging structures to meet contemporary safety and performance standards. Our investigative journey commenced with the casting and testing of an RBC beam, followed by an RBC column, to establish a baseline understanding of their structural integrity. Subsequently, we harnessed the analytical prowess of ABAQUS software to simulate the behavior of these elements under various stress conditions. The insights gleaned from this computational analysis laid the groundwork for the next phase of our exploration. In a pioneering effort to enhance the structural fortitude of RBC, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) was employed as a retrofitting material. The transformative impact of CFRP was meticulously evaluated by modeling retrofitted beams and columns within the ABAQUS environment. This simulation enabled a direct comparison between the performance of retrofitted and non-retrofitted RBC components, illuminating the efficacy of CFRP in reinforcing the structural framework. The culmination of our research presented a comprehensive comparative analysis between retrofitted RBC and its modern counterpart, RCC. This comparison not only highlighted the viability of retrofitting as a preservation technique but also underscored the potential of CFRP in bridging the gap between historical construction practices and current engineering standards. Through rigorous empirical testing and advanced computational modeling, this thesis establishes a compelling case for the retrofitting of RBC structures. It advocates for the integration of modern materials and techniques to safeguard our architectural legacy while ensuring the safety and functionality of these structures for future generations. The findings of this study serve as a beacon for conservationists and engineers alike, championing the fusion of tradition and innovation in the realm of structural rehabilitation.