Andreea Serbescu

Mechanical Characterization of Basalt FRP Rebars and Long-Term Strength Predictive Model

AbstractThe use of basalt fiber–reinforced polymers (BFRP) in construction applications is relatively new and, although its mechanical performance is expected to be similar to that of glass fiber–reinforced polymer, not many studies have addressed its performance in concrete and mortar environments. This paper examines the degradation of BFRP bars at their product development stage after exposure to accelerated environmental conditions and proposes a methodology to predict their long-term design strength. A total of 132 BFRP specimens comprising two types and seven different diameters were tested in tension after conditioning in pH9 and pH13 solutions at 20, 40, and 60°C for 100; 200; 1,000; and 5,000 h. Based on the results obtained and adopting the durability approach of industry standards for FRP reinforcement in concrete structures, a comprehensive long-term strength predictive model for fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars in multiple environments is proposed and exemplified. The BFRP bars tested as p...

Basalt FRPs for strengthening of RC members

The use of FRPs to enhance the structural performance of RC members represents today’s common practice. This is mainly due to their high strength to weight ratio, corrosion resistance or ease of application. However, given the current circumstances, the construction industry is in need of a more viable alternative to the commonly used glass and carbon fibres. Hence, the paper discusses two experimental programmes investigating the use of relatively new basalt fibres for strengthening of both compression and flexural members. Application of shear strips in strengthening of an RC beam (University of Sheffield) has shown that even a small amount of basalt FRPs can successfully increase the ultimate load capacity as well as provide anchorage and reduce the brittleness of plate end debonding. Testing of FRP confined concrete cylinders (Magnel Laboratory) has proven basalt to be 14% more effective than glass, yielding an average compressive strength increase of 84% when compared to the unconfined cylinders.