8 - Strengthening of metallic structures with fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites

Abstract

This chapter discusses the strengthening of metallic structures with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. FRP composites can be used to address a variety of structural deficiencies in metallic infrastructure. A superficial comparison of flexural strengthening for metallic and concrete structures suggests many similarities between the design methods; however, virtually every aspect of the design of metallic structures is different in detail. The structural failure modes, critical issues, degradation, and analysis techniques all differ significantly from concrete strengthening. FRP strengthening for metallic structures is a younger technology than for concrete structures and research into the method is still in progress. The chapter focuses on design guidance for strengthening flexural members. It is combined with a description of the current state-of-the-art for other forms of strengthening, advantage could be taken of emerging applications of FRP strengthening to metallic structures. There are two principal stages to designing FRP flexural strengthening for metallic structures. The first of these is a sectional analysis to determine the amount of FRP material needed and the second is a bond analysis to check the capacity of the adhesive joint.