Where Are FRP Rebars Used?
The range of applications of FRP materials is extensive. Here are a few examples of where fiberglass rebars or fiberglass mesh can be used.
• The high energy absorption of fiber-reinforced polymer makes it suitable for fortifying engineered structures that are subjected to dynamic and impact loads, including constructions that are exposed to wind, waves, high traffic, earthquakes, and blasts as well as a risk of falling or hitting one object on another.
• Subsea pipes for deep water can also be produced from fiber-reinforced polymers since this material offers remarkably increased buoyancy (due to their low density) compared to metal.
• Stairways and walkways can also be secured with FRP because the material is lightweight and rust-proof.
• One of the most important applications of FRP is seismic retrofitting where existing structures are modified and improved to make them more resistant to seismic activity (ground motions, soil subsidence, etc.).
• FRP rods are used for reinforcing underwater pipelines and structural parts of waterside platforms. Besides that, the FRP rebar is completely tolerant to the detrimental effect of chloride ions. Plus, it has high tensile strength, making it applicable for marine or coastal concrete projects, such as constructing wharves, fending groins, diaphragm walls, or water purifying facilities.
• FRP rebars are put to good use in internal reinforcement projects for concrete structures such as the production of tunnel segments or retaining piles for foundation pits.
• FRP mesh and rods are used for boosting various structures made from concrete, masonry, timber, and steel, and they make a common reinforcement material in constructing manufacturing facilities and factories.
• FRP armature is used in pre-tensioned concrete for applications where extreme resistance to corrosion is vital, such as to produce bridges, barrier walls, or decks.
• Fire resistance, anti-static, and explosion-proof qualities lend FRP rebar applicability in such spheres as mining road support, chemical processing industries, civil engineering.
