Reliablity analysis of bridge beams retrofitted with fibre reinforced polymers

This paper presents a study of reliability of RC beams retrofitted with FRP. The beams' variables and their variability are assessed. Three common failure modes are considered, i.e. flexural failure, intermediate span debond and end debond. The prediction models used in this study were developed previously by the authors. Monto Carlos simulation is carried out to study the variability of the capacity of CFRP-strengthened beams for each failure modes. A reliability analysis is carried out based on the guidance provided by Eurocode 2. The analysis provides the bases for recommendation of capacity reduction factors for different failure modes. It is found that a factor of 0.6 is needed for flexural failure and intermediate span debond; whereas a factor of 0.5 can be applied for end debond. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.