Fibre-Reinforced Polymer Reinforced Concrete Members under Elevated Temperatures: A Review on Structural Performance

Abstract

Several experimental and numerical studies have been conducted to address the structural performance of FRP-reinforced/strengthened concrete structures under and after exposure to elevated temperatures. The present paper reviews over 100 research studies focused on the structural responses of different FRP-reinforced/strengthened concrete structures after exposure to elevated temperatures, ranging from ambient temperatures to flame. Different structural systems were considered, including FRP laminate bonded to concrete, FRP-reinforced concrete, FRP-wrapped concrete, and concrete-filled FRP tubes. According to the reported data, it is generally accepted that, in the case of insignificant resin in the post curing process, as the temperature increases, the ultimate strength, bond strength, and structure stiffness reduce, especially when the glass transition temperature Tg of the resin is approached and exceeded. However, in the case of post curing, resin appears to preserve its mechanical properties at high temperatures, which results in the appropriate structural performance of FRP-reinforced/strengthened members at high temperatures that are below the resin decomposition temperature Td. Given the research gaps, recommendations for future studies have been presented. The discussions, findings, and comparisons presented in this review paper will help designers and researchers to better understand the performance of concrete structures that are reinforced/strengthened with FRPs under elevated temperatures and consider appropriate approaches when designing such structures.