Preface
Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) is a common term used by the civil engineering
community for high-strength composites. Composites have been used by the space and
aerospace communities for over six decades and the use of composites by the civil
engineering community spans about three decades. In the composite system, the strength
and the stiffness are primarily derived from fibers, and the matrix binds the fibers
together to form structural and nonstructural components. Composites are known for their
high specific strength, high stiffness, and corrosion resistance. Repair and retrofit are still
the predominant areas where FRPs are used in the civil engineering community. The field
is relatively young and, therefore, there is considerable ongoing research in this area.
American Concrete Institute Technical Committee 440 documents are excellent sources
for the latest information.