Abstract:
Structures that have been constructed all over the world are subjected to ageing and they deteriorate over time due to corrosion and other distress. Such defects in structures call for strengthening techniques. The technique of near-surface mounted reinforcement (NSM) involves cutting a series of shallow grooves in concrete or masonry surface in required direction. The depth of the groove must be less than the concrete cover in the case of RC structures so that the existing reinforcement is not damaged. The grooves are then partially filled with epoxy mortar into which reinforcements are pressed. The remainder of the groove is then filled with epoxy mortar and the surface is levelled. This method can be used to increase the flexural strength of beams and slabs, or the shear capacity of beams. This paper discusses the influence of various parameters of NSM technique in RC beams and the efficiency of NSM method in flexural and shear strengthening of RC beams.

Keywords: Near surface mounting (NSM), Groove, Filler material, Groove dimension, FRP reinforcement.