Fiber Reinforced Polymer

Composites Composites are combinations of two materials in which one of the material is called the reinforcing phase, is in the form of fibers, sheets, or particles, and is embedded in the other material called the matrix phase. Typically, reinforcing materials are strong with low densities while the matrix is usually a ductile or tough material. If the composite is designed and fabricated correctly, it combines the strength of the reinforcement with the toughness of the matrix to achieve a combination of desirable properties not available in any single conventional material. Components of composite materials Reinforcement: fibers

Matrix materials

Interface

Glass

Polymers

Bonding surface

Carbon

Metals

Organic

Ceramics

Boron Ceramic Metallic The essence of the concept of composites is that the load is applied over a large surface area of the matrix. Matrix then transfers the load to the reinforcement, which being stiffer, increases the strength of the composite. It is important to note that there are many matrix materials and even more fiber types, which can be combined in countless ways to produce just the desired properties. In the United States, composites manufacturing is a 25 billion dollar a year industry. There are about 6000 composites related manufacturing plants and materials distributors across the U.S. The industry employs more than 235,000 people. An additional 250,000 people are employed in businesses that support the composites industry, including materials suppliers, equipment vendors, and other support personnel. About 90% of all composites produced are comprised of glass fiber and either polyester or vinylester resin. Composites are broadly known as reinforced plastics.

Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP):  For years, civil engineers have and repair of new and deteriorabeen in search for alternatives to steels and alloys to combat the high costs of repair and maintenance of structures damaged by corrosion and heavy use.  Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) is a relatively new class of composite material manufactured from fibers and resins (and has proven efficient and economical for the development ting structures in civil engineering. FRP Structure  composed of : carbon or glass, provide the strength and stiffness.  The matrix commonly made of polyester, Epoxy or Nylon, binds and protects the fibers from damage, and transfers the stresses between fibers.

Manufacturing OF FRP : They are pre-engineered and pre-fabricated in a shop, then assembled and installed at a bridge site where a wearing surface is added. Applications of FRP  as in bridges and columns built completely out of FRP composites have demonstrated exceptional durability, and effective resistance to effects of environmental exposure Advantages of FRP:  Light weight . ( FRP deck 25 psf - Concrete deck 119 psf )  Resistance to de-icing salts and other chemicals.  Ease and Fast installation .  Reduced traffic delay .  Good durability .  Long service life .  Cost savings Disadvantages of FRP:  Higher initial cost compared to a conventional concrete deck.  Lack of design standards and conventions for material characterization  Limited FRP experience within the construction industry.  FRP's low modulus of elasticity leads to a deflection driven design which does not allow a designer to fully capitalize on the FRP's strength