PROPOSAL FOR A REINFORCEMENT METHOD FOR EXISTING GUARDRAIL POSTS USING REINFORCED CONCRETE MEMBERS

Abstract

 A technique for reinforcing guardrail posts with a reduced cross-section due to corrosion is introduced. This involves placing three reinforced concrete members inside a steel pipe. These members are then joined internally and unified to form a single composite member that strengthens the post. This method effectively improves the bending capacity of the post. An investigation into a trapezoidal shear key with a height of 10 mm revealed that the structure could reach bending failure without significant interface slippage. In such a case, ensuring both the strength and quantity of steel materials was sufficient to satisfy the design strength requirements. Qualitative analysis indicated that the confinement by the steel pipe functions effectively, with the indented patterns inside the steel pipe transmitting shear forces and enabling the composite member to resist bending moments.