The inability of traditional materials to permanently resolve issues related to concrete deterioration is probably the biggest reason why structural engineers and researchers have been trying to develop materials that can meet the structural needs of our times. Conventional construction materials; for example, steel, cannot sufficiently address concerns associated with rapidly growing concrete deterioration.
GFRP fiberglass rebar is one of the most developed types of composite materials that can be used in various civil engineering applications. GFRP reinforcement is being accepted widely due to its favorable properties: high strength-to-weight ratio, electromagnetic neutrality, corrosion-resistance, and ease of installation.
In-practice data and research conducted to date have shown numerous advantages of implementing GFRP as a concrete reinforcement. However, there are still a considerable number of implementation, design and technical issues that need to be resolved prior to broader use of FRP composites as an alternative to traditional materials.
Over the last few years, the use of advanced composites has gained worldwide popularity because of the rising need to build sustainable concrete structures and rehabilitate the existing structurally deficient concrete structures. The developed countries are now putting heavy emphasis on the use of sustainable structural designs, and improving the performance of existing structures.
FRP composites are increasingly being considered as an enhancement to and substitute for infrastructure systems that are reinforced with traditional construction materials. As mentioned earlier, fiberglass rebar is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material that can be customized in accordance with nature of a project. Because of these favorable characteristics, GFRP composites are selected for both new and rehabilitation projects. They are also used as an external reinforcement for strengthening and seismic retrofitting.
While the mechanical advantages of using FRP composite are clearly explained in literary works, the construction industry should keep exploring composite materials as a potential solution to contemporary structural challenges.
Waterside concrete members are constantly exposed to the harsh and corrosive environment that can deteriorate steel reinforcement quickly and shorten the lifespan of a project. Being a durable solution to environment-related issues, GFRP reinforcement can be utilized for a diverse range of applications.
Composite materials were initially developed for aerospace, automotive, industrial, electrical, military, recreational, and marine industries. While research-based content is widely available regarding the improved performance of concrete members reinforced with composites, the fiberglass rebar industry should investigate and eliminate all the factors that hinder the growth of composites as modern construction materials. The ongoing research to further explore the true capabilities of advanced composites will pave the way for widespread adoption of GFRP composite materials.
The construction industry has to consider many factors: environmental factors, resource consumption, financial constraints, social factors, and project requirements before selecting materials for sensitive projects. GFRP fiberglass rebar is developed while considering all these factors.
TUF-BAR has been developing, manufacturing, and selling superior quality GFRP fiberglass rebar and accessories in North America for many years. Our construction products are designed to build and support a sustainable concrete infrastructure with minimum maintenance costs. Feel free to discuss your project!
