Upgrade of RC Silos Using Near Surface Mounted FRP Composites

This paper describes a new technology for the repair and upgrade of reinforced concrete (RC) silos using Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites. Reasons for strengthening silos are primarily lack of compliance with new code requirements, design and/or construction errors, and aging. An innovative strengthening technique based on the use of Near-Surface Mounted (NSM) FRP bars is herein presented by providing a detailed design example and a recently completed field application. It is envisioned that the use of NSM FRP reinforcement may become a highly effective solution to strengthening needs in silos and circular structures.