Freeze/thaw effects on the performances of FRCM strengthened reinforced concrete beams

Nowadays, the use of FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Mortar) systems is largely adopted in the field of structural retrofitting. Nonetheless, the durability issue is a lightly investigated phenomenon, even if it is important for the long-term effects on external reinforcement effectiveness. This paper presents the results of freeze/thaw cycles and low temperature on the mechanical response of concrete members strengthened with a PBO-FRCM system consisting of Polyparaphenylenebenzo-bisoxazole fiber meshes embedded into an inorganic mortar. In particular, the experimental investigation was performed on small RC-beams (1000 mm long), on FRCM specimen and FRCM-concrete joints. Test results were reported and discussed in the paper.