FRP Composite

FRP composites have been used for structural reinforcement in the China for nearly 25 years. During this period, people increasingly accepted FRP composite as mainstream building materials in China, and the number of projects was also increasing.

What is composite reinforcement?

FRP composites consist of high-strength continuous fibers (such as glass fiber, carbon fiber, basalt fiber) embedded in a polymer matrix. Fibers provide the main reinforcing element, while the polymer matrix (epoxy resin) acts as a binder, protects the fibers, and transfers loads between the fibers.

The most common FRP system used for concrete reinforcement is carbon fiber based (CFRP). Compared with glass fiber-based systems, carbon has superior mechanical properties and higher tensile strength, stiffness and durability. The use of prefabricated CFRP reinforcement and slabs is usually limited to straight or slightly curved surfaces; for example, the top or bottom surfaces of slabs and beams.

FRP composite application

The FRP composite system provides very practical tools for strengthening and transforming concrete structures and is suitable for:

Bending reinforcement

Enhanced shear force and tensile force

Column limitation and ductility improvement.

Fire rating and protection

Although carbon fiber can withstand high temperatures, the threshold temperature of the binder system is much lower. You can choose to use FRP for fire protection, but the high cost of using special fire protection materials is not always reasonable.

Installation

Horse Construction's 3d install video

https://www.horseen.com/index/post/detail/id/77

Conclusion

The FRP system has been successfully used to strengthen buildings, bridges, silos, storage tanks, tunnels and underground pipelines. The higher cost of FRP materials is offset by labor costs, equipment use costs, and reduced downtime during installation, which makes it more cost-effective than traditional reinforcement technologies.