ABSTRACT
Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) is a composite made of high-strength fibers and a matrix for binding these fibers to fabricate structural shapes. Common fiber types include aramid, carbon, glass, and high-strength steel; common matrices are epoxies and esters. Inorganic matrices have also been evaluated for use in fire-resistant composites. FRP systems have significant advantages over classical structural materials such as steel, including low weight, corrosion resistance, and ease of application. Originally developed for aircraft, these composites have been used successfully in a variety of structural applications such as aircraft fuselages, ship hulls, cargo containers, high-speed trains, and turbine blades (Feichtinger, 1988; Kim, 1972; Thomsen and Vinson, 2000). FRP is particularly suitable for structural repair and rehabilitation of reinforced and prestressed concrete elements. The low weight reduces both the duration and cost of construction since heavy equipment is not needed for the rehabilitation. The composites can be applied as a thin plate or layer by layer.
