Fibre reinforced composites for civil engineering and infrastructure applications

Fibre reinforced composite materials originally developed for the aerospace, defense, and high performance applications areas show great potential for use in civil engineering and infrastructure areas. Based on their high strength- and stiffness-to-weight ratios, corrosion resistance, environmental durability, and inherent tailorability, fibre- reinforced polymer matrix composites are increasingly being considered for use both in repair and retrofit of existing infrastructure, and for the construction of new structures. Applications of this material range from its use as reinforcement in concrete, as patches for the external strengthening of concrete structures, for seismic retrofit of structural elements, to the construction of modular and long span bridges and aesthetically pleasing structural elements. This paper discusses the use of fibre reinforced polymeric composite materials as an addition to die palette of materials for civil engineers, and presents examples of its applications. It also outlines new concepts, development needs, and the potential for this material in the twenty-first century.