FRP composites in structures: some recent research

An on-going research programme led by the first author at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has addressed many issues in the application of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites in civil engineering structures. While the main focus of the programme has been on the behaviour and modelling of reinforced concrete (RC) and metallic structures strengthened with bonded FRP reinforcement, increasing attention has also been devoted to the use of FRP composites in new construction. This paper presents a brief summary of some of the latest advances of the research programme, covering the strengthening of RC structures with bonded FRP reinforcement, seismic retrofit of RC structures, durability of FRP-strengthened RC structures, hybrid FRPconcrete structures, and smart FRP structures. Much of the work has involved collaboration with the third author at the University of Edinburgh.