Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) has over the past two decades become an increasingly recognized material used in structural engineering applications. Used with increasing effectiveness since their introduction in
the aero-space industry in the early 1960’s, composite materials offer a number of distinctive advantages for structural strengthening.
Retrofitting of concrete structures has become an increasingly dominant use of the material in structural engineering applications. Such uses include increasing the load capacity of existing structures (such as existing parking garages) that were designed to tolerate far lower service loads. Other uses include seismic retrofitting, and repair of damaged concrete structures. Retrofitting with CFRP in many instances can be a cost effective method of structural concrete strengthening. CFRP is also widely used to strengthen concrete structures that have lost reinforcing steel mass due to corrosion and concrete deterioration.
The advantage of CFRP over steel as a reinforcing material are due to many benefits which include:
- Light weight
- Non-corrosive
- Very high tensile strength
- Available at any length
Schnell Contractors, Inc. has over 15 years experience installing these structural composite products and can assist in the design for the complete structural repair. Designed to meet critical requirements for strength and durability, composite strengthening systems offer innovative solutions for structural upgrading, repair and protection.
Please contact Schnell Contractors, Inc. You can count on us for professional service from start to finish.