Introduction to Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Concrete Reinforcement (Rebar Alternatives)
About
This 1-hour course focuses on giving the attendee a basic understanding of what Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) is and its uses in construction. The attendee will learn why there is benefits for concrete to be reinforced with GFRP and what applications make the most sense for its use. The pros and cons, as well as common misconceptions of the product, will be covered. Additionally, differences in designing concrete structures with FRP based on the ACI 440.11-2022 Code will be covered.
Objectives
After attending this session, participants should be able to
- Understand what alternatives to steel rebar are in the market, including Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP).
- Articulate the material advantages of GFRP over steel rebar as reinforcement in concrete, specifically focused on increased strength, lighter weight, and complete resistance to corrosion.
- Identify applications that stand to benefit from selection of GFRP over traditional steel rebar: high corrosion environments, marine, difficult-to-maintain, cost sensitive, etc.
- Aware of the incorporation of GFRP into building codes: ASTM D7957, ACI 440.1 (referenced by ACI 318), TMS 402/602-22 (forthcoming), AASHTO GFRP-1
- Understand best practices for the use of GFRP in construction
