Evaluation, Analysis and Application
The Merguss Strengthening System was developed as a cost effective alternate to convensional strengthening techniques such as steel plate bonding, steel jacket, section enlargement, and other techniques. The Merguss Strengthening System can be installed quickly and easily on slab, columns or beams, and in areas with limited access. The system has been used and tested for increasing the flexural capacity of beam, slabs and columns, the shear capacity of beams, columns and walls and the ductility of columns.
Increase in flexural capacity are achieved by bonding the system to the tension face of a member in bending. Shear capacity may be improved by wrapping the system transversely around a member or oreanting fibers perpendicular to potential shear cracks. The ductility of columns may be enhanced by confining the column by wrapping the system completely around the column in the hoop direction.