Description

A new technology developed, is now being applied to the retrofitting and strengthening of concrete structures. The technology to strengthen concrete structures externally with carbon fiber cloth or strips introduced a whole new tool to engineers. In the past, steel beams typically had to be installed underneath slabs to increase capacity of existing slabs. These beams reduced head room between floors, and provided no flexibility in retrofits with mechanical and electrical components suspended from existing ceilings. In some cases, carbon fiber strengthening can be designed to be installed around much of the existing utilities.