Retrofitting of RC structural walls with FRP strips for flexural enhancement: A review of challenges, innovations, and future directions

Abstract This study provides a pioneering and in‐depth review of fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) flexural retrofitting methods for reinforced concrete (RC) structural walls, addressing critical gaps in seismic retrofitting research. While FRP composites offer exceptional strength‐to‐weight ratios and installation efficiency, their application to flexural enhancement of structural walls remains underexplored, particularly regarding debonding, compressive capacity limitations, and anchorage design. The study systematically evaluates innovative strategies such as vertically oriented FRP strips to optimize moment resistance and confined boundary elements to improve ductility while rigorously analyzing their effectiveness through experimental and analytical frameworks. A comparative assessment of international design guidelines highlights inconsistencies in addressing FRP's compressive contributions and anchorage requirements, underscoring the need for standardized practices. Furthermore, this review compares the findings of various studies, including ductility levels, load‐bearing capacities, influencing parameters, and the overall performance of different FRP‐strengthening systems for RC walls. By synthesizing empirical data and proposing novel theoretical insights, this review establishes actionable principles for optimizing FRP retrofitting in structural walls under cyclic loading. Its focus on cutting‐edge methodologies, unresolved challenges, and future directions positions it as an essential resource for advancing next‐generation retrofitting technologies in earthquake engineering.