A review on FRP bars and supplementary cementitious materials for the next generation of sustainable and durable construction materials

Abstract

As the problem of environmental deterioration becomes increasingly prominent, demand for reinforced concrete with favorable sustainability, durability and mechanical properties is growing. Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bar is more durable than traditional steel rebar. Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) are used as substitutions for cement, to reduce carbon emissions. A well-organized review on previous studies on FRP and SCMs is therefore necessary for developing the next generation of sustainable and durable construction materials. Therefore, this study aims to systematically compare the sustainability, durability and mechanical performances of FRP bars and SCM blended concrete. The sustainability of both materials are evaluated by their carbon emissions. The durability performance of FRP bars mainly includes resistance against alkali, chloride and freeze–thaw cycles. The durability performance of concrete includes resistance against alkali, chloride, sulfate attack, freeze–thaw cycles and carbonation. The effects of various SCMs on concrete are quantitatively analyzed. Analyses indicate that the alkaline corrosion of FRP bars may be mitigated by carbonating concrete. The combination of BFRP bars and carbonated SCM concrete potentially represents the next generation of sustainable and durable construction materials.