This report was prepared to provide a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art
for using composite materials for seismic retrofit applications. The emphasis is on
seismic retrofit of reinforced concrete columns. The report is presented in eleven
chapters. Chapters 1-3 provide a basic introduction to composite materials, including
discussions on the types of matrix and reinforcement materials, processing methods,
and basic mechanics. Polymer matrix composites with continuous carbon or
glass fibers as reinforcement are emphasized since they are the most frequently used
composite materials for seismic retrofit applications. Chapters 4-6 review methods
for designing and applying composite jackets onto columns and performing structural
tests on columns with composite jackets. Environmental durability test protocols and
data for composite systems for seismic retrofit are reviewed in Chapters 7-10.
Examples of commercially available composite retrofit systems are presented in
Chapter 11.
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