A State of the Art Report on the Durability Aspects of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites

Published

July 1, 2001

Author(s)

Joannie W. Chin, V M. Karbhari, D R. Reynaud

Abstract

Although fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are increasingly being used for the renewal of civil infrastructure, there are still some major questions related to the durability of these materials in a civil engineering environment. This concern is emphasized since the structures of interest are primarily load bearing and are expected to be in service, without substantial inspection or maintenance, for extended time periods (75+ years). This paper presents a synopsis of a gap analysis study undertaken under the aegis of the Civil Engineering Research Foundation (CERF) and the Market Development Alliance (MDA) fo the FRP Composites Industry to Identify critical gaps in data needed for such applications. The study focuses on the use of FRP in internal reinforcement, external strengthening, seismic retrofit, bridge decks, structural profiles and panels. Environments of interest are moisture/solution, alkalinity, creep/relaxation, fatigue, fire, thermal effects (including freeze-thaw) and UV-exposure.

Citation

CERF Report

Volume

Report # 40578

Pub Type

Journals

Keywords

alkaline conditions, creep, durability, fatigue, fire, FRP composites, moisture, temperatgure effects, ultraviolet radiation

Citation

Chin, J. , Karbhari, V. and Reynaud, D. (2001), A State of the Art Report on the Durability Aspects of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites, CERF Report (Accessed May 12, 2026)

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