Torsional Analysis of RC Multicell Box Girders Strengthened with CFRP

Although Fiber-Reinforced Polymers (FRP) have been widely used in the aerospace and automobile industries, their use in bridges and buildings is relatively new. Nevertheless, the advantages of FRP for specific applications result in it being used more frequently for structural engineering applications, especially for strengthening and retrofitting existing structures made of reinforced concrete or masonry. One area in which FRP is being used more frequently, is the strengthening of structurally deficient concrete bridges. Incentives for the use of FRP over traditional materials include the material's high stiffness, strength, corrosion resistance, and construct ability. Disincentives include unfamiliarity by engineers, cost, proprietary nature of the material, and lack of experienced construction personnel. This study is of interest to the engineering community, especially the researchers and practitioners using FRP-like materials for strengthening of civil structures.