Abstract:
Surprisingly little research has been conducted on the strengthening of timber with fibre reinforced polymer (FRP)
composites as opposed to the much more widely researched strengthening of concrete and to a lesser extent metallic
structures. As with all FRP strengthening applications. the bond of the FRP to the substrate is of particular
importance, A lack of understanding of the bond between FRP and timber is a major factor contributing to the
reluctance of industry to utilise FRP for timber strengthening applications. This paper reports results of preliminary
bond strength tests undertaken at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) on FRP-strengthened timber joints.
The aims of the tests were to observe the suitability of the test method. quality of the bond. bond strength and failure
mode of the test specimens.
