ABSTRACT
Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite structures are finding broader acceptance from end users through a wider range of applications in civil infrastructure as an alternate to conventional concrete, steel, and timber structures [Arockiasamy et al. 2003; Demers et al. 2003; Fyfe, Watson, and Watson 1996; GangaRao et al. 2001; Gerritse, 1998; JCI 1998; Lampo, Hoy, and Odello 1996; Porter and Barnes 1998; Priestly, Seible, and Fyfe 1992; Roll 1991; Taerwe 1993; Uomoto 2001]. This acceptance is attributed primarily to the noncorrosive properties of FRP composite structural components and systems. Such acceptance should be viewed in the context that direct and indirect costs of maintenance, rehabilitation, replacement of systems, and loss of productivity due to steel corrosion are of the order of $297 billion (U.S.) per year or 3% of the gross domestic product [NACE, CCT, and FHWA 2002]. Structural FRP composites provide similar or superior mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties when compared to conventional steel, concrete, and timber materials, thus leading to lower life-cycle costs. However, the thermomechanical properties of FRP composites decrease during their service life — especially under harsh environments — similar to conventional structural materials.
