Introducing Fiber Composites into the Construction Industry

Abstract

Advanced composites of glass, carbon, or aramid fibers combined with suitable resins have been used for a number of years in the aerospace and automotive industries. A number of projects are currently studying possible applications in the construction and civil engineering industries. The advantages and disadvantages of these new materials in the context of the requirements of the construction industry are reviewed, and ways in which they could be introduced are considered. The construction industry is highly conservative, the complete opposite of the aerospace and automotive industries, which are continually seeking to improve their products. It is also a relatively low-tech industry, in which much of the actual construction work is carried out by relatively unskilled labor. On the other hand, it is a high-volume industry that consumes materials in tonnages unknown elsewhere. Finally, most structures are singular hence may be thought of as prototypes. These, and other aspects of the problem of introducing new materials are discussed in relation to two collaborative programs, EUROCOMP [1], which has developed design guidance for the structural use of fiber reinforced composites (FRP), and EUROCRETE [2], which is developing composite bars to replace the steel reinforcing bars in concrete. EUROCRETE [2], which is developing composite bars to replace the steel reinforcing bars in concrete.