Use of Polymer Composites in Bridge Rehabilitation

Abstract

Use of Polymer Composites in Bridge Rehabilitation The need for innovative construction techniques and sustainable construction materials has completely reshaped the construction industry. Following the need for high-performance and environmentally-protected construction materials, FRP composites have gained gradual but wide acceptance from civil engineers around the world.

Properties like high tensile strength, ease of installation, low maintenance cost, and resistance against harsh environmental conditions give FRP composites a clear advantage over traditional construction materials. The application of fiber reinforced polymer in civil construction ranges from rehabilitation of existing reinforced concrete (RC) to building new projects.

Conclusion

This paper attests to the many potential applications of FRP composite materials in construction, although the need for brevity prevents all topics from being fully addressed. It can be said that the amount of experience with various forms of FRP construction materials varies in accordance with the perceived near-term economic and safety benefits of the materials. In the case of externally bonded reinforcements, for example, the immediate cost and safety benefits are clear, and adoption of the material by industry
is widespread. In other cases where FRP materials are considered to be primary load-bearing components of structures, field applications still maintain a research flavor while long-term experience with the material accumulates.