Recyclable LRS FRP composites for engineering structures: Current status and future opportunities

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been widely used in civil engineering for either strengthening existing deteriorated reinforced concrete (RC) structures or constructing new structures. Recently, a new category of FRP composites with a large rupture strain (i.e., referred to as “LRS FRP” in this article) has become increasingly popular. In contrast with conventional FRP composites, LRS FRP composites possess a larger elongation and a lower modulus of elasticity. Since the ultimate state of structures with FRP strengthening generally depends on fracture of the FRP, it is expected that an increase in FRP rupture strain leads to a better performance of structures and LRS FRP composites are particularly suitable for enhancing ductility of structures. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review on the basic characteristics of LRS FRP composites and structural usage of LRS FRP composites (including concrete confined with LRS FRP composites), with further research opportunities associated with LRS FRP composites in structural engineering applications being identified.