Flexural Behavior of Laminated Wood Beams Strengthened with Novel Composite Systems (CFRP and Wire Rope): An experimental study

In this study, it was aimed to improve the mechanical properties of laminated timber beams by using Novel Composite Systems (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer and Wire Rope). Reducing the cross-sectional area of the beam is important for the strength conditions required in large span systems with structural laminated wood material. Within the scope of this study, it is foreseen that the use of wood, which is an environmentally friendly and sustainable building element, will be made more economical and safe, instead of reinforced concrete and steel elements currently used to pass wide openings. Structural behavior of hybrid reinforced laminated timber beams was determined under the loading system. Experimental findings show that normal laminated timber beam (0N) has a maximum load of 14 kN and a deflection of 36 mm. On the other hand, the highest increase in the values of laminated beams reinforced with steel ropes was obtained with the (2N) reinforcement, with a maximum load of 38 kN and a displacement of 137mm. In this way, a load increase of 168% and a displacement increase of 275% compared to the reference sample were obtained. Since the steel rope-reinforced samples absorb the load, crack formation and transfer to the upper layers are prevented. 3F beam specimen reinforced with CFRP and steel ropes obtained maximum load of 28 kN and a displacement of 152 mm. Compared to the reference sample, a load increase of 92% and a displacement increase of 14% were obtained. Consequently, the fabrics placed between the layers with CFRP prevented crack development and provided a significant interlayer connection. It has been observed that the fiber composite-reinforced wooden beams increase the load bearing capacity by more than 50% and exhibit a ductile behavior. The carbon fabrics placed between the laminated wooden beams with the innovative reinforcement system will not both disrupt the aesthetics and will reduce the effect of earthquake forces, and significant reductions can be achieved in the sections.