What is Fiber Reinforced Polymer Concrete?

What is fiber reinforced polymer concrete?

One very common way of reinforcing concrete is by pouring concrete over steel rebars. The concrete hardens and creates a much stronger and longer-lasting product. Almost every construction site uses this method to create reinforced concrete that will support larger amounts of weight and usage.

But there are two large problems with using steel rebar. First, water can be absorbed by the concrete, get into the steel, and oxidize, creating rust and weakening the metal. For many concrete applications, especially in particularly wet climates or under or near water, this corrosion means that the concrete must be repaired or replaced more often.

Another problem is in situations where there are a lot of electromagnetic currents. The steel rebar is an excellent conductor and can pull electricity away from their designed pathways and into the concrete. This can cause a weakening of the structure and more damage.

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) concrete is the solution. FRP products, such as FRP rebar, can be used as a strengthening tool without having to worry about corrosion or electromagnetic activity. Instead of building rebar from steel, companies such as Hughes Brothers, Inc. produce them from materials such as glass, fiber, aramid, and carbon fiber. These long rebars are then placed into the concrete in the exact same way as you would with steel.

FRPs are used worldwide and are a safe and effective alternative to steel. They can also be used to strengthen existing structures. These FRPs are bonded to the exterior of the concrete and provides strength and reinforcement. Vector Construction has been performing these types of repairs for decades.

For more information on FRPs, or any other concrete construction or repair work, contact Vector Construction. We provide excellent results to clients throughout North America and our experience and expertise is your guarantee of a job well done.