Status of Fiber-reinforced Plastic Reinforcement Development and Cement-based Research Needs

This article examines the state of development of fiber-based reinforcement for concrete members in the United States. The term fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) is used to identify this type of primary reinforcement used for prestressed and nonprestressed concrete members. The article focuses on the current state of development and the research needed to characterize and assure the performance of FRP reinforcement in concrete structures. The current development includes a basic understanding of glass FRP reinforcement and a lesser understanding of alternative fiber types and prestressing applications. Research needs include strength, ductility, compatibility with cement, bond, and thermal characteristics of the FRP reinforcements. Of these research areas, the compatibility of FRP reinforcement with cement based materials is one of the most critical areas for further development.