GFRP Rebar: Growth And Challenges

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) have started to gain a competitive edge over traditional reinforcing materials such as steel. Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP), a variation of FRP, is gradually replacing epoxy and stainless steel. It is widely acknowledged as an effective construction solution for marine projects where corrosion-resistance and strength are of paramount significance.

Global growth

Rapid infrastructure development, the rise in construction spending, and struggle to develop corrosion-resistant construction materials are the main reasons why GFRP market is expanding worldwide. More than 25% of the construction failures are associated with corrosion and abrasion. Billions of dollars are spent annually to maintain and repair corroded structures.

Following the dire need for a permanent corrosion solution, fiberglass reinforcement has emerged as the most cost-effective construction material for building durable projects. In addition, GFRP rebar is considered as an ideal material for new and rehabilitation applications. In North America, the demand of GFRP rebar is growing rapidly. Composite materials of worth $22 billion, 80% of the total global consumption, were used in Canada and the US.

The inability of traditional steel reinforcement to effectively fight corrosion has paved the way for composite materials. Following are some of the factors that will drive the demand for GFRP rebar in the future:



Potential of GFRP construction material to dramatically decrease the maintenance cost

GFRP rebar has proven to be the best material for marine, MRI, bridges, and a number of other applications.

Fiberglass bars are lightweight and easy to handle, making it easy for civil engineers to complete a project in a time-effective manner.

Fiberglass-reinforced buildings are likely to achieve the service life of over 100 years, helping governments to build sustainable concrete infrastructure.

Challenges

The GFRP rebar industry faces a number of challenges including lack of data and design limitations. The mechanical properties of GFRP rebar are different from those of steel. Engineers have to follow the construction guides and recommendations proposed by manufacturers. As compared with conventional steel reinforcement, fiberglass rebar is relatively expensive so far as initial cost is concerned.

Composite materials are likely to play a vital role in the construction industry in coming years. A wide range of applications, properties of being high in tensile strength, and corrosion resistance make GFRP fiberglass rebar a potential leader in the global rebar market. Technological advancements and research will further define the future success of fiberglass rebar. The experts are optimistic about the long-term success of fiberglass rebar in the construction industry.

TUF-BAR Inc. manufacturers the highest quality GFRP  fiberglass rebar to serve the construction industry in North America.


 By Basharat Khadim


Article Source: GFRP Rebar: Growth And Challenges

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