Fire performance of concrete structures incorporating FRP reinforcement: State-of-the-art and knowledge gaps

Abstract

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have emerged as a promising material in modern construction, particularly in enhancing the durability and performance of concrete structures. This review paper offers a comprehensive analysis of FRP composites, focusing on their properties at both room and elevated temperatures and the critical performance issues that arise under varying thermal conditions when used as reinforcing or strengthening systems in concrete structures. The discussion encompasses FRP composites' combustibility, thermal, mechanical, and bond properties, emphasizing their behavior at both material and structural levels when incorporated into concrete structures. A detailed review of previous studies on fire resistance of FRP-incorporated structural members, including fire tests, numerical studies, and existing design provisions in codes and standards, provides a broad understanding of the current landscape. Results from these studies are utilized to evaluate the fire behavior of FRP-incorporated concrete structures and to examine the overall fire performance of such structures. In addition, strategies for achieving the necessary fire resistance and methods for evaluating fire resistance are summarized. Finally, critical knowledge gaps for advancing the state-of-the-art on fire performance of FRP-incorporated concrete structures are presented.