upgrading the performance level of frames using fiber reinforced plastic sheets

this paper demonstrates the results of a research into the capabilities of fiber reinforced plastic (frp)-retrofitting in enhancement of the performance level of reinforced concrete (rc) frames. the flexural stiffness of frp-retrofitted exterior and interior joints of each level of the frame has been determined using nonlinear finite element analysis (fea). having obtained the stiffness, the seismic performance of the frp-retrofitted frames has been determined by employing a software tool developed based on pushover method. the seismic performance of the retrofitted frames is compared with the corresponding plain frame as well as an existing rc frame that has been retrofitted with steel-braced. the results show that the performance level of the frp-retrofitted rc frame is upgraded in comparison with the original one, and keeping the performance level of the frame safety.