Innovating arch structures with fiber-reinforced polymer composites: A review

Z. Y. Xia, T. Jiang, T. Yu

Research output: Journal article publicationReview articleAcademic researchpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are a class of advanced non-metallic materials featuring advantages of high strength, light weight and excellent corrosion resistance. These advantages, in conjunction with the various methods available for making curved FRP members, create a wide range of possibilities for innovating arch structures with FRP composites. However, this subject has received inadequate research attention despite the exciting prospects demonstrated by pioneer studies. This paper provides a review on this subject with the aim to build a holistic picture and engage wider research participation. The paper begins with an overview of four feasible manufacturing/forming methods (vacuum infusion, filament winding, pultrusion and active bending), with an emphasis on their capability of creating curved FRP members and potential applications in arch structures. A review is next made on previous arch projects and relevant novel concepts, which are classified into two categories (all-FRP arches and FRP-incorporating hybrid arches) with distinct functionality and targeted areas of application. On the basis of this review, directions for future development of each of the two categories are highlighted, with a number of challenges and potential solutions discussed.

Original languageEnglish
JournalAdvances in Structural Engineering
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2023

Keywords

  • all-FRP arches
  • arch structures
  • curved FRP members
  • Fiber-reinforced polymer
  • FRP-incorporating hybrid arches
  • manufacturing methods

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

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