Composite Re-bars for Concrete

Background

Steel re-bars are widely used to reinforce concrete structures. However, when the steel reinforced concrete structures are exposed to road salts or the sea, the salt solution is able to penetrate the concrete and destroy the passive layer on the steel bars. Due to the presence of oxygen and water, the steel bars corrode and forms rust which is 7 times the volume of steel. Consequently, the steel bars expand internally causing the cracking and spalling of the concrete. This whole process is accelerated in hotter climates and can limit the life of the concrete structure to under 20 years.

Solution

Over the past 15 years, EPL have been researching and developing composite re-bars for use in concrete structures. This work has included:

• Identifying the optimum fibre and resin combinations capable of resisting both salt water solution and the alkalinity (PH13) of the concrete
• Manufacturing methods based on pultrusion
• Optimum shape and surface finish to achieve high pull out forces
• Extensive mechanical and durability data
• Design and development of case study structures including footbridges, crib walling, rock/soil anchor plates, shipping berths, coastal defence structures etc

Benefits

The benefits of composite re-bar reinforced concrete structures include:

• Significantly increased durability notably in the presence of salt solutions
• Reduced maintenance
• Lighter weight – due to reduced concrete cover
  
• Excellent through life cost savings

Expertise

EPL can assist companies on all aspects of composite reinforced concrete technology from the specification of materials, design of composite reinforced concrete structures, to the setting up and commissioning of pultrusion manufacturing facilities.

If you would like to know more please call: +44 (0) 1509 210027