Paper Title
Modeling and Analysis of Optimized Rectangular RC Columns Confined with CFRP Composites

Abstract
The structural behavior of rectangular reinforced concrete (RC) columns confined with different configurations of carbon fiber reinforcement polymers (CFRP) sheets is investigated by using nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA). SOLID65, LINK8, SOLID45, and SOLID46 elements represented the concrete, steel bars, steel plates, and CFRP sheets, respectively. Based on each simulated component’s actual characteristics, the nonlinear material properties are defined for each type of elements. The NLFEA results clearly confirmed that the use of CFRP composites strengthening system for RC columns improves the ductility and ultimate axial strength capacity. The enhancement in the ductility and axial strength increased with the increasing of the number of CFRP composite layers. The CFRP composite strengthening system of rectangular RC columns can be categorized as efficient and successful only if significant increase in the ultimate axial strength capacity is achieved. As confirmed by the results of this study, NLFEA can efficiently simulate the structural behavior of rectangular RC columns confined with CFRP sheets. It is recommended that the NLFEA model can be used in additional research studies to develop design guidelines and rules for RC structural elements strengthened with CFRP composites. Keywords - NLFEA, CFRP, Simulation, RC Columns.