Title: Deterioration of Tensile and Shear Strength of GFRP Bars

Author(s): Paulina Arczewska, Maria Anna Polak and Alexander Penlidis

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 327

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 50.1-50.16

Keywords: GFRP bars; composite materials; shear strength; tensile strength; GFRP bars durability.

DOI: 10.14359/51713371

Date: 11/1/2018

Abstract:
This paper presents an investigation on deterioration of tensile and shear properties of GFRP bars. Composite bars, contrary to conventional steel, when used in structures exposed to aggressive environments can significantly increase their durability and lifetime. However, the use of GFRP bars in concrete structures is still limited due to unspecified durability properties of this relatively new material. Since long-term durability data are not readily available, accelerated aging tests have been used in this research to study GFRP bar degradation. GFRP bars were kept in a highly alkaline solution heated to 50, 60 and 70°C for 1, 3 and 5 months, respectively, and after each immersion period, bars were taken out and tested in tension and shear. The test results show that the high pH of the alkaline solution has an adverse influence on GFRP properties, and the speed of degradation depends on the temperature of the solution. Also, the effect of bar size and surface finishing on the degradation speed was analyzed, and the results are presented in the paper.