Carbon Fiber can be a very effective means to reinforce, stabilize, and repair damaged or deteriorated retaining walls. In order to effectively stop movement in a retaining wall, “restraint” has to be provided. For instance, if a wall is tipping and carbon fiber straps are added, the wall could still continue to tip but would do so as one reinforced section. Carbon fiber offers a unique advantage in that it provides high tensile strength, allowing it to distribute the forces exerted on the wall more evenly.
Superior solutions for lasting stability
Due to the extremely high tensile strengths and very little elongation, the SRS-600 unidirectional carbon fiber is ideal to strengthen concrete structures such as columns, beams or walls. Providing design strengths over 196,000 PSI, this material delivers much greater reinforcement capabilities than steel, is non-corrosive, and at a fraction of the weight by comparison.
Additionally restraint can be provided by wall tiebacks or anchors that are incorporated into the repair by holding back the top of the wall. This allows the carbon fiber to resist any movement between the tiebacks and the backfill, restraining the base of the wall.
Moreover, the installation process of carbon fiber reinforcement is relatively quick and non-disruptive compared to traditional repair methods, minimizing downtime and disruption to surrounding areas. Additionally, its compatibility with various surface geometries and configurations makes it adaptable to a wide range of retaining wall repair projects, offering engineers and contractors a versatile solution for addressing structural deficiencies and prolonging the lifespan of critical infrastructure.
Multiple fabrics were used on this 60’ long retaining wall at Occidental College in Los Angeles, CA. The 6” wide SRS-600UNI was employed to provide vertical flexural strengthening of the wall, while the 12” wide SRS-660BI was utilized for anchoring the vertical straps, as well as for crack confinement and horizontal strengthening along the wall’s midpoint.
In cases where restraint has to be added using tiebacks or other methods, it is important to strengthen the wall to handle the moment that this induces on the wall.
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SRS-600UNI
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SRS-660BI
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The system can be finished with virtually any aesthetic coating
Since the carbon fiber is less than 1/8" thick, the overall finished appearance can have a very low aesthetic impact once the wall is coated or painted. While the carbon fiber has an unlimited lifespan and is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and freeze thaw cycles, it is important to protect the epoxy component of the composite system from ultra violet rays. Most exterior paints provide sufficient protection, however some clients may prefer to parge coat the wall for a complete uniform appearance.
Understanding the causes and solutions for retaining wall failure
Concrete retaining walls can fail due to various reasons, often stemming from design flaws, construction errors, or environmental factors. Inadequate drainage can lead to hydrostatic pressure buildup behind the wall, causing it to crack or collapse under the weight. Poor compaction of the soil behind the wall during construction can result in settlement, causing the wall to tilt or bulge. Additionally, corrosion of reinforcing steel within the concrete can weaken the structure over time, especially in areas with high moisture or salt exposure. Freeze-thaw cycles can also cause concrete to crack and deteriorate, compromising the integrity of the wall. Finally, seismic activity can induce significant stress on retaining walls, leading to sudden failure if not properly designed to withstand such forces.
When concrete retaining walls fail, it can mean not only extensive landscape damage, but pose a significant safety risk to the public or surrounding property if left unaddressed. Retaining wall damage can be caused by saturated soils that result from improper drainage, footing damage due to settlement, rotation issues, or reinforcement deterioration over time.
Why surface prep and void filling is an important step before any carbon fiber installation
By diligently preparing the surface beforehand, any imperfections or irregularities can be addressed, creating a smooth and uniform base for the carbon fiber application. Surface grinding helps remove any existing coatings or contaminants, while utilizing SRS-2100 for filling voids and cracks, enhancing structural integrity. This thorough preparation process not only ensures optimal adhesion of the carbon fiber but also minimizes the risk of future damage or deterioration, providing a solid foundation for long-term structural stability. Additionally, proper surface preparation facilitates a smoother surface, allowing for the flawless application of a cosmetic coating, thereby enhancing both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the surface.
Since carbon fiber needs to remain in contact with the wall in order to remain in tension, it is important to fill the 'hinge point' where the wall opens up on this mortar joint. This important step prevents the receding backwards and potentially de-bonding the carbon fiber. Any voids, cracks, or mortar joints should also be filled with a high compressive strength, non sag material.
Engineered for maximum safety & reliability
By utilizing both SRS's unidirectional and bidirectional fabrics which are bonded to the substrate with a structural epoxy adhesive, the walls are able to be repaired and reinforced against future damage. The carbon fiber reinforced polymer system (CFRP) provides permanent localized crack reinforcement as well as global strengthening of the walls. The dual component American made system has been designed by engineers and rigorously tested as permanent repair solution for these applications.
600 gsm unidirectional carbon fiber fabric designed to perform under pressure
A unidirectional, high-strength, non-corrosive carbon fiber fabric designed to be field laminated with SRS-1000 Epoxy adhesive to create a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite for structural reinforcement and strengthening of concrete and masonry structures.
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We are the carbon fiber infrastructure rehabilitation experts. SRS proudly leads the way with American Made carbon fiber strengthening systems that are built around the needs of professionals, designed, and engineered to preserve concrete structural components.
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