Sulfate and Calcium Chloride Resistance of Steel/Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Hybrid Panel for Improved Movable Weir Application

Abstract

This study evaluated the performance of a hybrid panel that can overcome the current problem of corrosion of the steel panels of improved movable weirs when they are exposed to a sulfate and calcium chloride environment such as sea water. A hybrid panel with glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) layers on both sides of a steel panel means that the central panel is not exposed to the external elements, which can avoid corrosion problems. In this study, to maximize the hybrid panel’s strength and durability, the moisture absorption characteristics and the durability in an accelerated environment were evaluated. The test results were considered to indicate no durability issues as the final absorption ratio was approximately 2.0% or less in all environments. Also, from the accelerated deterioration test results when the steel panel processed by sand blasting was applied in all accelerated deterioration environments, it satisfied the residual strength level of 65% or more. However, in the case without surface processing, upon exposure to MgSO4 solution, it did not satisfy the standard residual strength level of 65%. These results show that sand blasting on the surface of a steel panel is adequate for hybrid panels for improved movable weirs.