Concrete Reinforcement is Made Easier and More Affordable Using FRP

Save Time and Extend Storage Tank Life with FRP Wraps

Repairing aging concrete infrastructure requires the striking of a delicate balance: The repairs need to be done in a reliable fashion, yet if they become too expensive, they can wreck the budget of an industrial or municipal project. Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites can help strike that balance, delivering successful results at an affordable rate.

Background on FRP

FRP is a material used for the purpose of concrete strengthening. They are created by merging E-glass or carbon fibers with polymer, as explained by the structural products manufacturer StrongTie. FRP initially found a home in the aerospace, civil, and automotive fields. Its rigidity and high ratio of strength to weight made it appealing in those industries. Those traits have since helped the material catch on in the areas of retrofitting and construction, where it can be particularly useful when dealing with “aging, damaged or overloaded” concrete structures.

How It Works

So, how exactly does FRP work? Dennis Ayemba of Construction Review writes that FRP can be created on the site of a job, where it then cures and becomes part of the structure it is applied to, or it can be manufactured elsewhere and then brought to the site. The latter approach allows for the creation of reinforcing items like bars, plates, and rods in custom shapes.

The most widespread concrete strengthening FRP systems are based on carbon fiber rather than glass, which is a bit weaker. Though premade FRP is usually too stiff to “wrap around columns or beams,” Ayemba points out that “FRP fabric … can be easily tailored to fit any geometry.” In other words, FRP wraps are able to reinforce columns, beams, and slabs, regardless of their specific shape. They are bound with adhesive systems, which involve elements such as a primer, epoxy putty, and resin.

Sometimes, ultraviolet (UV) light can pose a problem, particularly for epoxies. However, a Bay Area coatings contractor can apply different types of coatings for UV protection.

Specific Uses

FRP solutions perform very well when it comes to a number of specific tasks. Per StrongTie, those tasks include fixing problems derived from design and construction flaws. FRP can also help bring a structure up to code, should it need to meet increased loading requirements. It can also help old infrastructure achieve a longer usable life. Another application is seismic retrofitting—that is, making a structure more resistant to damage from earthquakes. Essentially, any time an existing concrete structure needs a boost in stability and durability, FRP can play a role.

Tank Repair, Coatings, Linings and FRP Wraps Contractor in the Bay Area

Picon FRP, Inc. has been providing full-service tank repairs and maintenance in the Bay Area for over 30 years. Contact us if you need high quality, affordable tank repair work. Call 510-232-0065 or send us a message today.