Durability of FRP in concrete ? deterioration mechanisms

This paper discusses the concrete environment and its effect on fibre reinforced polymers (FRP) in terms of internal and external aggressive conditions that may affect its durability. The specific conditions considered are the effects of moisture, chlorides, alkali, stress, temperature, UV actions, carbonation and acid attack. Much of the work presented has been carried out as a series of reports in the development of a European Model Code in conjunction with fib Task Group 9.3. The differences in performance between glass, aramid and carbon fibres and the polymers used to bind them have, where possible, been identified. However, higher variability in performance may be found due to manufacturing techniques and in addition details of some polymers and fibres tested are not disclosed within the literature. Notwithstanding the above, the potential degradation mechanisms are discussed with reference to internationally published research and some very general recommendations are given at the end of each section in an attempt to give some guidance to engineers when selecting FRP for construction.