Static Analysis of Wooden Beams Strengthened with FRCM-PBO Composite in Bending

The article presents an analysis of the static work of bent solid-wood beams reinforced with FRCM–PBO (fiber-reinforced cementitious matrix–p-phenylene benzobis oxazole) composite. In order to ensure better adhesion of the FRCM–PBO composite to the wooden beam, a layer of mineral resin and quartz sand was applied between the composite and the wooden beam. Ten wooden pine beams with dimensions of 80 × 80 × 1600 mm were used for the tests. Five wooden beams, unreinforced, were used as referenced elements and another five were reinforced with FRCM–PBO composite. The tested samples were subjected to a four-point bending test in which the static scheme of a simply supported beam subjected to two symmetrical concentrated forces was used. The main purpose of the experiment was to estimate the load capacity, the flexural modulus and the maximum bending stress. The time needed to destroy the element and the deflection were also measured. The tests were carried out based on the PN-EN 408: 2010 + A1 standard. The material used for the study was also characterized. The methodology and assumptions adopted in the study were presented. The tests confirmed a significant increase in destructive force by 141.46%, maximum bending stress by 118.9%, modulus of elasticity by 18.32%, time needed to destroy the sample by 106.56% and deflection by 115.58% compared to the reference beams. The unusual method of wood reinforcement presented in the article can be considered as innovative, characterized not only by a significant load capacity margin exceeding 141%, but also by simplicity of application.