Experimental Investigation on FRP-to-Timber Bonded Interfaces

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental study on fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) to timber bonded interfaces. A series of tests on 86 single shear FRP-to-timber joints is reported, of which the test parameters are (1) adhesive type, (2) FRP plate type, and (3) timber species. The results include descriptions of the behaviors of the specimens in addition to categorization of failure modes. Joint strengths, strain and bond stress distributions, and bond stress-slip relationships are also presented. Finally, a test-based J-integral method is briefly introduced, which can predict the bond stress-slip behaviors of bonded joints. The results presented in this paper are expected to aid design engineers in selecting suitable adhesives and FRP plate types with which to strengthen different species of timber. The results may also be used to inform the design of future experimental studies on the topic.