Shear design equations for FRP RC beams

This paper reports on an experimental programme investigating the shear behaviour of concrete beams reinforced with FRP reinforcement. The main aim of this study was to identify the shear resisting mechanisms for FRP RC so as to assist in the development of design recommendations. The results of the tests confirm the very conservative nature of existing design recommendations which seem to underestimate the contribution made by the concrete and shear reinforcement to the total shear capacity. Less conservative recommendations, validated by the findings of the experimental work, are proposed for the shear design of FRP RC beams.