Concrete Reinforced with FRP Bars: Alternative for Noncorrosive Structures

Abstract

The corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete structures is still a main problem and needed protectionespecially the structures subjected to aggressive environments. At present, an alternative is to use concretereinforced with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars as FRP bars are noncorrosive. However, this technology isquite new for civil engineers. More importantly, the mechanical properties of FRP bars are different from thoseof steel bars. This paper is, therefore, aimed at introducing and discussing about this technology in the issuesof mechanical and physical properties of FRP bars; advantages and disadvantages, research work andapplications of concrete structures reinforced with FRP bars; and economic considerations as well asresearch work and applications in Thailand.