Abstract
Over the last few decades, non-metallic reinforcement, particularly fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, has emerged as a viable solution to combat corrosion issues prevalent in steel reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Glass/vinylester FRP is highly effective for internal applications, offering advantages such as reduced weight and extended service life. Meanwhile, carbon/epoxy FRP fabrics are widely used for external applications due to their strength-to-weight ratio and ease of installation. Achieving proper stress distribution, especially in the bond between materials, is crucial for maintaining structural integrity. Internal applications often encounter conflicting findings regarding the bond strength of GFRP reinforcement, necessitating refinement of predictive models. Conversely, external applications face challenges such as FRP fabric rupture and concrete cover delamination, hindering widespread adoption due to a lack of standardized inspection methods.
Three studies have been conducted to address these challenges. One such study focused on enhancing the understanding of GFRP rebar bond behavior through full-scale bending tests, proposing improvements to existing design equations. Another study explored non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques for assessing damages in externally bonded CFRP concrete elements. Among these techniques, infrared thermography (IR) emerged as a promising tool for detecting defects beneath FRP systems. These research efforts aim to offer insights into improved inspection methodologies, essential for ensuring the structural health and durability of externally bonded FRP elements. Through continued investigation and refinement, these advancements seek to promote the widespread adoption of FRP composites in concrete structures while enhancing their long-term performance and reliability.