FRCM confined reinforced concrete columns: Experimental behavior, analytical and numerical modeling

In the paper, the behavior of FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Mortar) confined concrete columns is analyzed both experimentally and theoretically. An experimental investigation was conducted on FRCM confined reinforced concrete columns with square cross section (9 columns, 1000 mm height with 150x150 mm cross section) subjected to eccentric axial load. Parameters investigated were the confining configuration (continuous and discontinuous) and the eccentricity values. The obtained results in terms of failure modes, axial capacity, longitudinal and transversal strain, were presented and discussed. The behavior of FRCM confined columns were analyzed analytically through a model found based on the non-linear constitutive law of the confined concrete, developed for short columns, and numerically by a model found on a Finite Element procedure developed through Abaqus. The accuracy of both models was assessed by the comparison between numerical predictions and experimental results. The main results of the analysis allow evidencing the effectiveness of the FRCM confinement and the influence of geometrical and mechanical parameters on the structural response of reinforced concrete columns.