Longitudinal FRP retrofitting

[user]

How can I model a RC rectangular member retrofitted with longitudinally-oriented steel or FRP layers placed on the two opposite sides of the section?

[seismosoft]

First create a material model featuring the properties of the retrofitting material and then use an I-section element with web height that equals that of the original element's section, a web thickness that is approximately zero, flange width/thickness dimensions corresponding to the width/thickness of the retrofitting layer, and connect this new retrofitting element to the same nodes to which the existing element is connected to. Evidently, if the retrofitting layers are applied all around the section, then one can use a rectangular or circular hollow section, and for those cases where the fibres are placed only on one side (e.g. retrofitting of beams) a T-shaped section can be used.

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