Stress-strain model of weak PVC-FRP confined concrete column and strong RC ring beam joint under eccentric compression

To investigate the stress-strain relation of PVC-FRP Confined Concrete (PFCC) column with RC ring beam joint subjected to eccentric compression, the experiment of 13 joint specimens, which were designed with principle of "strong joint and weak column", were presented. Several variable parameters, such as reinforcement ratio, width and height of ring beam, FRP strips spacing and eccentricity, were considered. The specimens were eventually damaged by the crushing of concrete, the fracture of PVC tube and several FRP strips. With the FRP strips spacing or eccentricity increased, the ultimate carrying capacity of specimens declined. The strain of FRP strips and axial strain of PVC tube decreased as FRP strips spacing decreased. The decrease of eccentricity would slow down the development of strain of FRP strips and axial strain of PVC tube. The slope of stress-strain curve of PFCC column decreased as FRP strips spacing or eccentricity increased. The ultimate strain of PFCC column reduced as FRP strips spacing increased, while the effect of eccentricity on the ultimate strain of PFCC was not distinct. Considering the influence of eccentricity on the stress-strain relation, a modified stress-strain model for conveniently predicting the weak PFCC column and strong RC ring beam joint under eccentric compression was proposed and it was in good agreement with the experimental data.