ABSTRACT:
Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebars are gaining recognition as a viable substitute for traditional steel reinforcement in concrete structures due to their notable benefits, including corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, and reduced weight. This research aims to optimize GFRP rebars to improve structural performance by tackling significant challenges such as their lower modulus of elasticity, bond strength with concrete, and behaviour under fire and cyclic loading conditions. Experimental findings reveal that while GFRP rebars demonstrate excellent resistance to harsh environments and lighter weight, issues such as brittle failure, reduced ductility, and limited fire resistance must be carefully addressed in design considerations. The results underscore the need for enhanced surface treatments, hybrid composite reinforcement strategies, and advanced resin formulations to improve the performance of GFRP rebars across various structural applications. Furthermore, the research highlights the necessity of developing standardized design guidelines and performing cost-benefit analyses to promote wider adoption. The findings indicate that although GFRP rebars are promising for use in marine and chemically aggressive settings, additional research is essential to explore their thermal resistance, seismic performance, and recyclability to broaden their use in conventional construction methods.
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