``Gap Analysis'' for Durability of Composites in Civil Infrastructure

The lack of a comprehensive, validated, and easily accessible data base for the durability of FRP composites has been identified as a critical obstacle to widespread acceptance of the material for use in civil infrastructure. This paper presents a synopsis of a gap analysis study undertaken under the aegis of the Civil Engineering Research Foundation (CERF), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Market Development Alliance (MDA) of the FRP Composites Industry to identify critical gaps in data needed for such applications. The study focuses on the use of FRP in internal reinforcement, external strengthening, seismic retrofit, bridge decks, structural profiles and panels. Environments of interest are moisture/solution, alkalinity, creep/relaxation, fatigue, fire, thermal effects (including freeze-thaw) and UV-exposure.