Enhancement of flexural performance of wood beams using textile fabrics

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the flexural performance of wood beams (beech — Fagus orientalis Lipsky) reinforced with woven and selected weft knitted glass fabrics, namely, Milano and plain knit. Some physical and mechanical properties of the beech wood and the textile fabrics were determined in accordance with relevant ASTM standards. Twenty-four wood beams which have two different cross sections (I-shaped and square hollow) were manufactured and tested under a three-point load. They were divided into two groups: Group A specimens were not reinforced to serve as a reference, whereas Group B specimens were reinforced with textile fabrics combined with adhesion. The flexural behavior of the specimens was studied through their load-deflection characteristics. The modes of failure were identified and categorized. The experimental results showed that the load-bearing capacity of reinforced beams increased significantly compared to the beam without reinforcement. This method can be used to repair and strengthen damaged wood beams.