CFRP-based strengthening system
Slabtec was engaged in designing, documenting, and installing a CFRP-based strengthening system for a new mezzanine and plant loading on an existing conventionally reinforced suspended industrial slab.
The building was around 40 years old, and neither the tenants nor the owner had any relevant structural documentation. The clients had considered other structural steel solutions, which were expensive and intrusive. The brief also included remediating some extensive cracks in a critical area.
Investigation
Key areas of the slab were first investigated to determine concrete depths, reinforcement sizes, and spacings. These were used to form the as-builts off which the strengthening design was based.
The design required CFRP strengthening to both the soffit and top surface. As these CFRP laminates crossed cracks, they had to be injected with structural resins.
Observation
The main area of the slab, which required strengthening, also contained existing cracking.
