Glass fibre reinforcing shows well after eight years

Studies done by ISIS Canada on the durability of concrete bridges that use glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) rather than steel reinforcing have found that the structures hold up well after eight years of service.
As reported in the ISIS Canada Research Network’s latest newsletter, “Contrary to a commonly held belief by the engineering community, test results taken in these structures reveal that the alkali in concrete bridge decks does not have any detrimental effect on the GFRP material. After eight years of service, GFRPs have provided excellent performance in concrete structures.”
Provisions for using fibre reinforced polymers for strengthening and reinforcing concrete or wood structures, whether new or rehabilitated, are included in the latest issue of the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code in Section 16. The new code was published in November.
The ISIS Canada Research Network promotes the use of GFRP structures and other advanced structures. A number of universities are involved, led by the University of Manitoba under President Dr. Aftab Mufti. See www.isiscanada.com