Fiber-Reinforced Polymers in Structural Design: A Comprehensive Insight of Innovations, Performance, and Future Prospects
Girmay Mengesha Azanaw
Girmay Mengesha Azanaw, Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, Institute of Technology, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
Manuscript received on 25 February 2025 | First Revised Manuscript received on 13 March 2025 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 22 March 2025 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 April 2025 | Manuscript published on 30 April 2025 | PP: 8-14 | Volume-12 Issue-4, April 2025 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijies.C110012030325 | DOI: 10.35940/ijies.C1100.12040425
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© The Authors. Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: Fibre-reinforced polymers (FRP) have emerged as a transformative technology in structural design, offering enhanced durability, improved load-bearing capacity, and superior seismic performance compared to conventional reinforcement systems. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the innovations, performance, and prospects of FRP applications in modern construction. The study critically examines FRP systems from a multi-scale perspective, integrating nano-enhancements at the fibre-matrix interface, mesoscale structural arrangements, and macro-scale behaviour under external loads. A rigorous methodological framework was adopted, combining an extensive literature review, advanced computational simulations, and laboratory experiments. Experimental investigations focused on assessing load transfer mechanisms, debonding phenomena, and durability under cyclic and dynamic loading conditions, which are critical for seismic resilience. Finite element analysis and other numerical modelling techniques were employed to simulate the long-term performance of FRP-enhanced structures and to predict failure modes under diverse environmental and loading scenarios. These approaches enabled a detailed characterisation of the structural behaviour, bridging the gap between microstructural enhancements and overall system performance. The findings of this research reveal that innovative bonding techniques, surface treatments, and the incorporation of nano-scale materials significantly improve the interface properties and overall integrity of FRP systems. Multiscale modelling has demonstrated its efficacy in elucidating the intricate interactions among the fibre, matrix, and interfacial zone, thereby facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of performance improvements. The study highlights that integrating FRP into structural design not only optimises strength and serviceability but also provides a sustainable alternative, offering potential reductions in maintenance costs and environmental impact. The research is significant because it lays the groundwork for standardized testing protocols and future investigations into eco-friendly FRP materials, thus addressing key challenges in durability, cost, and fire resistance. In summary, this comprehensive investigation not only advances our understanding of FRP innovations and performance but also charts a clear path for future research directions, ensuring that FRP systems continue to evolve and meet the demands of modern, resilient infrastructure.
Keywords: Fiber-Reinforced Polymer, Structural Engineering, Seismic Retrofitting, Composite Materials and Durability.
Scope of the Article: Structural Engineering