Durability of Reinforced Concrete Beams Externally Strengthened with CFRP Laminates under Harsh Climatic Conditions

This paper addresses the durability of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates under natural and saline environments in Arabian Gulf. Beam specimens were conditioned sunlight water for 180, 360, 730 days tested four-point bending until failure. The load–deflection curves, strains, failure modes, ductility, stiffness exposed evaluated. CFRP-strengthened exhibited a 67% higher ultimate load capacity than control after 28 up to 51% 71% two years direct exposure, respectively. No pronounced loss strength or damage epoxy was observed. Failure modes transformed from cohesive adhesive due whereas sunlight-exposed samples no failure-pattern change, failures remained interfacial. For design analysis, environmental reduction factors are proposed compared current industry guidelines. Thus, can endure perform effectively when subjected severe high salinity, temperature, humidity.