Steel-reinforced polymer: an innovative and promising material for strengthening infrastructures

A new family of composite materials, based on uni-directional, high-strength twisted steel wires of fine diameter impregnated with thermo-set or cementitious resin systems is described. Materials impregnated with thermo-set resin are referred to as steel-reinforced polymer (SRP) and those impregnated with cementitious resin are referred to as steel-reinforced grout (SRG). SRP/G has the potential to address the lack of ductility and fire resistance associated with fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP). Two case studies on the use of SRP in a concrete car park and a bridge are presented. The first case study reports tests performed up to failure in full-scale prestressed concrete double-T beams strengthened with SRP. The second reports on field testing conducted to investigate the feasibility of using the application of SRP to strengthen bridges in Missouri, USA.