GFRP Connector and Partially Precast Concrete Sandwich Panel System

Abstract

The paper introduces a new connection system that was developed for the construction of insulated, partially prefabricated concrete sandwich panels. The system comprises glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) connectors that tie the two precast concrete layers together during transport and during placement of the on-site concrete. In service, the anchors provide a flexible connection system between interior and external concrete layers, but are loaded by normal forces applied to the facing layer and during temperature-induced as well as differential shrinkage of the wall layers.