Seismic Response of Concrete Components and Systems Reinforced with Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Bars: Trend and Challenges

The deterioration of reinforced concrete structures due to steel corrosion has become a serious problem in the last decades. In North America, many vital structures such as bridges and parking garages are suffering from this phenomenon and millions of dollars are annually spent in repairing and rehabilitation and in some cases the complete replacement of structures. In the last three decades, the use of fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) as alternative reinforcing bars has emanated as a viable solution for the corrosion problems and found their way into applications in different structural elements. The promising results made it is possible for building a complete structure entirely reinforced with FRP bars; starting from the base to the roof. However, since all focus in experiments was given to the resistance under static load, the feasibility of of such structures in region prone to earthquake has become questionable. Given this call, many experimental investigations have been conducted around the world covering the response of FRP-reinforced shear walls and structural frames. Many design aspects have been introduced; however, more important issues are still ambiguous. This paper attempted to provide up-to-date knowledge related to the research work pertaining to the seismic response of concrete components and systems reinforced FRP Bars. The paper also identifies the challenges and future opportunities for the broad use of these advanced systems in civil engineering and construction.

Keywords: GFRP bars; Reinforced concrete; Frames; Walls; Hysteretic response; Energy dissipation