ABSTRACT
The use of fibre composites in construction has accelerated rapidly in recent decades, and a complete list of applications would take up an entire textbook. In this chapter, some examples of typical applications are given that illustrate the main benefits of using composites over more traditional construction materials in specialised situations. The relatively low-volume fractions achieved in frc mean that it is used in semi-structural applications such as architectural cladding, tunnel linings and industrial flooring. The frp reinforcing components may either be prefabricated plates, or be manufactured 'in situ' by adding fibres, cold-curing resin and/or prepreg tapes directly to the structural element. Whether external bonding (EB) or near-surface mounting (NSM) techniques are used, it is important to consider the structural action of the additional frp. Confinement can be achieved at the design stage by casting columns within steel hollow sections, but is very difficult to retrofit using traditional materials.
