Rapid degradation and corrosion of steel reinforcement has been a major concern in North America. Following the infrastructure crisis, the use of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) and its variants as an alternative to steel has gained popularity due to the ability of FRP composites to fight corrosion. Concrete structures such as bridges and seawalls are subjected to aggressive environmental conditions where it is hard to stop corrosion process using old-fashioned techniques. Concrete bridges also have to resist the impact and dynamic loads.
Researchers have conducted a number of experimental investigation programs to study the behavior of beam-columns joints reinforced with GFRP fiberglass rebar and strips. The major purpose of those studies was to investigate the performance of GFRP reinforcement and compare it to that of steel reinforcement.
There is a broad range of possible applications of unidirectional FRP grid-reinforced structures. The applications include barrier walls, water tanks, curtain walls, tunnel lining, and bridge decks. FRP grids offer a number of advantages ranging from fatigue resistance to high durability. FRP composites are lightweight and can be manufactured in accordance with the requirements of a project. Reduction in assembly work at sites can reduce the cost of a project. FRP grids is an excellent reinforcement solution for offshore or coastal concrete structures.
Corrosion of traditional reinforcement is considered the primary cause of deterioration of concrete infrastructure. We know how expensive it is to repair or rehabilitate the structurally deficient structures. According to an estimate, more than 40% of the global production of steel is used to fix corrosion related issues.
Electromagnetic neutrality is another reason why FRP composites are gaining attention from the civil engineering community. Sensitive structures such as hospitals, military facilities, and scientific research centers require a nonmagnetic environment with no metallic reinforcement. GFRP rebar is a non-metallic product that offers electromagnetic neutrality. This has led to the increasing use of GFRP reinforcement in waterside and other critical applications. Moreover, GFRP reinforcement makes it easy to embed fiber optic strain measurement devices. Measurement devices or sensors are critical so far as monitoring process is concerned.
Composite materials will play an important role in building sustainable concrete infrastructure. Unique and favorable characteristics make GFRP rebar suitable for applications where steel cannot meet sustainability requirements.
Detailed experimental studies conclude that GFRP-reinforced concrete structures have been performing extremely well under aggressive environmental conditions. It’s high time to explore the true potential of these innovative and promising construction materials.
At Tuf-Bar, we have been striving to design and manufacture high-quality, corrosion-free construction products for many years. Being a leading producer and seller of GFRP fiberglass rebar in Canada, our prime focus is to build and strengthen the concrete infrastructure through durable, maintenance-free solutions. Reach us to know more about our GFRP products!
