Flexural behaviour of hybrid (FRP/steel) reinforced concretebeams: a review

Abstract

Corrosion of steel reinforcement reduces the durability of concrete structures, leading researchers to seek alternatives. Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite bars have gained significant attention in construction due to their excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. These bars, made of fiber-reinforced polymer materials, offer a viable alternative to traditional steel bars in reinforced concrete structures. When used in concrete, FRP composite bars enhance corrosion resistance compared to conventional steel-reinforced concrete. This is due to the non-metallic nature of FRP bars, which eliminates the risk of corrosion caused by exposure to moisture and aggressive chemicals. These properties make FRP composite bars attractive for applications in hostile environments or structures requiring extended service life. However, it is important to acknowledge that there are certain limitations associated with this material. While it possesses exceptional rigidity and strength, it is prone to breakage because of its brittleness, have lower bond, and expensive compared with steel bars. Therefore, Hybrid reinforcement (steel/FRP bars) in structural components appears to be an extremely useful approach to boost the effectiveness of the building system by offering more load capacity and enhancing ductility, serviceability, and corrosion resistance. The use of these materials can help to reduce maintenance costs, extend the service life of infrastructure, and promote sustainability in the construction industry. However, further research and testing are required to fully understand the long-term performance and structural behavior of these composite systems.