Structures Strengthened with Bonded Composites

Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are used to strengthen and extend the life, and enhance the seismic resistance, of buildings and structures worldwide through the external bonding of FRP plates, sheets and grids. Their high strength/weight ratios, durability in adverse environments and high fatigue performance make them the engineering designer's solution of choice for the wide range of civil engineering applications covered, including bridges, tunnels, underwater structures and historic buildings.

This book presents a comprehensive account of the FRP composite strengthening of structures built of concrete, reinforced and prestressed concrete, masonry, steel and other materials. An emphasis on bonding and debonding behaviour leads through experimental, theoretical and computational studies to analytical models and design codes for existing and emerging innovative engineering techniques. The main topics covered are


material behaviour and bonding

strengthening effects in tensile members

flexural, shear and torsional strengthening

spalling resistance



Additional coverage of long-term durability issues, environmental degradation and fire resistance complete the picture, making this essential reading for academic and corporate civil, structural and design engineers.