An Overview of Research and Applications of FRP in New Zealand Reinforced Concrete Structures

Abstract

FRP materials, though having been around for several decades, are seeing increasing uptake in the structural engineering domain. In New Zealand, the use of FRP sheets is especially common in the seismic retrofit of buildings and bridges, though there is still minimal use of FRP bars as internal reinforcement. A number of typical uses of FRP materials are shown, highlighting the different solutions offered by the material as well as the developing familiarity of engineers and contractors of the material. Then, the direction of research into the use of FRP is touched on, showcasing the progress made in understanding FRP-reinforced and retrofitted structures and what could be next in terms of potential applications of the material. The applications discussed showcase that versatility of the material allows it to be used in a variety of areas in construction, provided more standardised manufacturing techniques are developed and key research questions on their behaviour are answered. Overall, there is a growing awareness of the properties of FRP as a structural material within the construction industry and there is ongoing research to further investigate where and how it can be used in concrete structures in pursuit of improved durability, performance and resilience.