Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are increasingly being used to strengthen structures and to retrofit existing structures. CFRP composites are used in various industries: construction, automotive, and many others. This literature review has shown that CFRP composites find numerous practical applications. Improving structures by reinforcing them with CFRP composite is an innovative approach in design. This review aims to explore the current state of the art in the types of structures that can be reinforced with CFRP, and modifications to the CFRP composite as an additional aspect to increase the strength of the reinforced structure. It has been shown that regardless of the type of reinforced material, the most critical element in this connection is the bonded joint. Proper surface preparation and the use of an appropriate adhesive are also important.

Thin-walled channel columns with non-standard cross-section shapes loaded with gradually increasing compressive force applied at the geometric centre of gravity of the cross-section were the subject of the investigations presented in this paper. The aim of the research was to determine which of the columns has the most favourable geometrical characteristics in terms of the applied load. The main investigation was an experimental study carried out using two methods: strain gauging and the optical method. Based on strain gauging, the critical forces were determined using the strain averaging method and the linear regression tangent to compression plot method. In addition, modern optical tests were performed using the ARAMIS system. The buckling forces at which the first signs of buckling appear and the buckling modes of columns were determined. The results obtained from the experimental tests were used to validate the results of numerical tests carried out using the Finite Strip Method (CuFSM). Based on this method, the values of critical forces and the percentage contribution of individual buckling forms to the loss of stability of the compressed columns were determined.

Experimental tests and numerical analyses were carried out on short, thin-walled channel columns with modified cross-sectional shape. The columns were loaded with an axial compressive force applied at the center of gravity of the cross section. Tests were carried out on a universal testing machine, while numerical analyses were performed in ANSYS software. The purpose of the tests was to determine the values of critical forces for the compressed columns and to determine the values of maximum forces at which failure of the columns occurs. Critical forces were determined based on the strain-averaged method. Based on the study, it was found that the strength and resistance to loss of stability of columns is primarily affected by their stiffness, and therefore by the shape of the cross-sections. In addition, for short columns, it seems more important to determine the value of maximum forces than the values of critical forces.

This article is the second part of a comprehensive research program investigating the structural performance of thin-walled channels with modified cross-sectional geometries. The study involved testing six beams, three of which featured perforated webs, while the other three had flat, solid webs. The beams were subjected to four-point bending tests in order to evaluate their load-bearing capacity. The first part of the research presented the results of experimental tests and finite strip analysis. This article will focus on finite element analyses and analytical calculations conducted in accordance with Eurocode 3 guidelines and the principle of minimizing potential energy. The study provides several significant contributions: it integrates experimental, numerical and theoretical methods to deliver a thorough evaluation of beam performance. The finite element method (FEM) simulations offer precise modeling of complex stress and strain states, while analytical calculations supply a solid theoretical foundation for interpreting structural behavior. The research demonstrates that web perforation, while reducing critical and maximum forces, also results in considerable weight savings, enhancing material efficiency. Additionally, the division of the research into two articles ensures clarity and accessibility, with this second part being dedicated to detailed FEM and analytical results, thereby facilitating both academic understanding and practical engineering applications.

The subject of this study is thin-walled channel sections with a modified cross-sectional shape. The investigation involved six beams, three of which had perforations on the web, while the other three had a flat, solid web. The beams were subjected to four-point bending tests. Experimental tests were conducted using both electronic and optical methods, with a test setup specifically designed for this investigation. Additionally, numerical analyses were performed using the finite strip method. The primary objective of the research was to determine the impact of web perforations on the strength and stability of the bent beams. The perforation of the web also resulted in a reduction in the overall weight of the structure, thereby decreasing material consumption. Based on the research, the critical forces and maximum forces at which total loss of load-bearing capacity occurred were determined. Furthermore, the buckling modes of the beams were identified. The study revealed that the critical and maximum forces for beams with perforated webs were lower compared to beams with a flat, solid web. However, the significant reduction in weight for the perforated beams suggests that their use remains advantageous. The results of FEM and analytical analyses, essential for modelling and understanding complex behaviours in thin-walled structures, will be presented in the second part of this publication to maintain clarity and accessibility.