Enhancing Shear, Flexural, and Torsional Performance of RC Beams Through Advanced Mesh Wrapping Techniques: A State-of-the-Art Review
Many RC structures are deteriorating due to aging, increased service loads, environmental deterioration, corrosion of the reinforcement, and design deficiencies. Therefore, strengthening and retrofitting techniques are essential to improve the performance of RC structures. A promising method for strengthening RC structures is by using fiber-reinforced polymer composites because of their specific strength, rust resistivity and ease of application in construction. Currently, mesh-based reinforcement systems have emerged as an acceptable alternative to conventional FRP sheets based on improved bonding characteristics, improved crack-resistant performance and improved stress redistribution. A systematic review was performed to investigate mesh-induced strengthening techniques for the RC beams under combined shear, flexural and torsional loading conditions. A total of 52 studies published between the years 2000 to 2026 were included for analysis from a variety of databases. The studies were categorized based on the strengthening materials used, wrapping configurations, loading conditions, and performance indicators such as load-carrying capacity, ductility, torsional capacity, crack prevention and energy absorption. The conclusion of the review indicates that while GFRP systems show greater ductility and are usually less costly, CFRP systems typically result in the largest increases in loading capacity. Hybrid FPR systems utilising carbon and glass fibers produced a balanced performance by increasing both loading and deformation capacity. The performance characteristics for strengthening have a direct bearing on how the RC beam behaves. Overall, the inclusion of mesh in the construction improved strengthening techniques and shows strong potential for enhancing the efficiency and durability of RC beams under complex loading conditions.