Analysis of Post-Installed Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Anchorage in Beam-Column Joints

Abstract

This project sought to examine the performance of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars in post-installed anchorage of beam-column joints. Post-installing is a common and often preferable method of making structural concrete connections in buildings and other structures as the system offers much flexibility. Some applications include cantilever beams, slab widening, and diaphragm wall construction. Post-installing requires little installation time, can be installed in many orientations, and is serviceable shortly after installation (Hilti, 2011). The method involves drilling a hole in a hardened concrete member and anchoring a bar of some type into the hole. Most commonly, an adjacent member is cast around the post-installed bar. In other cases, fixtures are attached to the post-installed bar such as hand rails or window framing systems. Regardless of the application, the connection of the bar to the adjoining concrete in a drilled hole is the critical link for post-installed connections.