This paper discusses the strengthening of (R.C) beams with openings by near surface mounted NSM system. A total number of five beams with rectangular openings in the shear zone have been tested. The opening is shown to affect the overall structural behavior of the beam. Three patterns of strengthening by NSM around the opening are investigated : horizontally, vertically and box shape. It is found that placing the NSM horizontally is not fully effective because diagonal cracks can propagate through the beam with crack path diverted to avoid intersecting with the NSM. While placing the NSM around the opening in box shape has a significant improvement in loading capacity and beam ductility. A nonlinear finite element analysis is conducted for numerical verification and extensive variable study. |
