The elements which influence the mechanical properties of GFRP composites include fiber type, matrix, relative quantities of the constituents and the orientation of the fibers. The quality of the interface between the matrix and the fiber also has a major impact on the mechanical properties of the GFRP. In addition, the post-curing and curing system can have an impact on the final properties of composite materials.
Ultimate tensile strength, stiffness and creep, uniaxial compressive strength, and compressive strength are some of the mechanical properties of GFRP construction materials.
The unique mechanical properties of GFRP composites make these materials ideal for building and strengthening of RC structures. Over the last decade, GFRP reinforcement and other composite materials have gained unprecedented popularity because of their ability to resist corrosion and resolve long standing structural issues.
The mechanical and physical properties of fiber-reinforced materials are studied with an emphasis on the potential application of these materials as durable concrete reinforcement.
Waterside concrete structures are often exposed to corrosive environments such as thermal cycle, salt, moisture, etc. To ensure the structures can survive the corrosive elements and achieve their expected service life, it is important to study the behavior of GFRP reinforcement with regard to environmental parameters.
GFRP materials are being widely accepted as a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete reinforcement because of the capacity of GFRP technology to extend the service life of structurally deficient structures and build durable concrete structures that can resist chemicals, weather, and abrasion while requiring minimal maintenance.
Different concrete structures demand a different level of durability based on the desired service life and the exposure environment. For instance, a retaining wall exposed to seawater will have different requirements than a building which is not subject to water or moisture. A seawall demands a protection shield against corrosive seawater which can deteriorate any structure rapidly. GFRP fiberglass rebar is the ideal reinforcement material to build waterside concrete structures.
Steel and other metals have isotropic properties which means they offer equal strength in all directions. A GFRP composite material offering anisotropic properties provides additional reinforcement in the direction of stress creating more durable structures at lighter weights.
The degradation of concrete is important to consider because the extensive degradation leads to decreased load carrying capacity. The durability of a concrete structure reinforced with fiberglass rebar largely depends on fiber, resin, fiber/matrix characteristics, manufacturing process, loading type and the nature of the environment. GFRP reinforcement remains effective against many environmental factors: mainly moisture, chemical substances, temperature, UV and ozone, creep, fatigue and water.
TUF-BAR is a leading manufacturer and supplier of superior quality GFRP rebar and accessories in North America. Visit our site to learn more about the characteristics and applications of our GFRP products!
