Hybridization in FRP Composites for Construction: State-of-the-Art Review and Trends

Abstract

Hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, combining different types of fibers within a polymeric matrix, have piqued the research community’s interest due to their enhanced mechanical properties and functional performance. These materials offer optimized fiber usage, tailored failure responses, and potential for pseudoductile behavior. Furthermore, hybridization avoids catastrophic tensile failure despite the composites being composed entirely of brittle materials. Empirical evidence from previous research conducted on hybrid FRP composites for civil engineering applications suggests their potential as a promising asset to the field. This review paper collates extensive research and development work on hybrid FRP composites for civil engineering applications, providing a comprehensive summary since their inception. It covers areas including the development of reinforcing bars for reinforced concrete (RC) structures, externally bonded strengthening systems for RC structures, pultruded profiles for novel structures, and cables for long-span bridges. The paper begins with a concise overview of the influential developments that paved the way for hybrid FRP composites, followed by an in-depth discussion of their utilization in the construction sector. The paper concludes by extrapolating the potential future trajectory of hybrid FRP composites, providing insights into their future outlook.