ABSTRACT
Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are the most elegant and promising structural materials in the current century. The widespread acceptance of these materials comes from the superior specific properties, corrosion resistance, ease of fabrication, and most importantly, the associated tailorability of the interface of the composite materials. This chapter begins with some of the revolutionary cutting edge current applications of FRP composites in various critical engineering sectors. Discussion is further continued on some of the commonly used materials for fabricating FRP composites. As interface is a crucial and decisive phase of the composite material, a brief explanation has been provided on the characterization of interfacial characteristics. Various FRP composite fabrication techniques are then discussed. The performance, especially the bond strength of composites, deteriorates during service periods depending on the environmental conditions. Both short-term and long-term properties of a composite depend decisively on the microstructure and the properties of the interface or interphase between the fiber and the matrix. Some of the possible environmental parameters, like temperature, moisture, ultraviolet radiations, and so on are discussed, which may have an impact on the in-service performance of the FRP composites. Some of the applications are also discussed, which involve long-term interaction of the FRP composites to some environmental parameters.
