Computer finite element model of concrete column/beam joints confined by advanced carbon-fiber composites

This paper presents the finite element modeling done at Utah State University on 12 computer models of a bridge column/beam joint confined with advanced carbon-fiber composites. This modeling is a follow-up to the full-scale testing that was completed at Utah State University. The computer models were created to represent the actual tests that were performed on the full-scale bridge bents. Two models were created to test the effect of a column composite wrap on the confinement of the concrete bent. Five additional models were developed to evaluate the effect of composite layer thickness on confinement. Finally, five more models were created to test the effectiveness of different composite wrap fiber orientations on confinement. An explanation of the computer software, the finite element formulation and solution, and the results of the model solutions are given in that order.