Ductility analysis of compression-yielding FRP-reinforced composite beams

Ductility is one of the major issues of concern in achieving the widespread acceptance of FRP-reinforced concrete structures in practice. A new technique for improving the ductility of FRP-reinforced concrete beams through compression yielding (CY) instead of tensile yielding in the plastic hinge zone has recently been developed. A CY beam is a relatively complicated composite member that incorporates an additional composite material into the plastic hinge of a FRP-reinforced concrete beam. This paper presents the results of an investigation into the ductility behavior of CY beams. Results from a numerical study are first presented to illustrate the effects of key variables on the ductility performance of CY beams. These effects are then comprehensively examined through an analytical study. Finally, general conclusions on the ductility design of CY beams are provided.