Applications of FRP Rebar in Transportation and Marine Engineering

In marine and transportation engineering, material durability and resistance to corrosion are critical to long-term infrastructure integrity. Fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) rebar, also known as GFRP rebar, is increasingly used in projects where steel rebar fails due to corrosion, particularly in environments exposed to saltwater, moisture, and aggressive chemicals.

1. Bridges, Ports, and Coastal Structures

One of the most impactful applications of FRP rebar is in bridge construction. In regions with high humidity, deicing salts, or coastal exposure, traditional steel rebar is prone to rust, leading to costly repairs or structural failures. FRP rebar, being non-metallic and corrosion-resistant, offers a reliable alternative.

Use cases include:

• Sea bridges and causeways

• Harbor retaining walls

• Port infrastructure and loading platforms

• Concrete piers and jetty foundations

These structures benefit from minimal maintenance, extended service life, and resistance to salt penetration.

2. Subways, Tunnels, and Underground Transit Systems

Underground projects such as metro tunnels and urban underpasses often suffer from groundwater exposure, chemical seepage, and moisture accumulation. When embedded in concrete, FRP bars:

• Maintain structural integrity without rust

• Avoid expansion-induced cracking caused by steel corrosion

• Reduce lifecycle maintenance costs

Additionally, FRP’s non-conductive nature makes it ideal for electrified rail systems, helping avoid stray current corrosion and electrical interference.

3. Performance in Salt Spray and Marine Atmosphere

In environments dominated by salt spray, sea breeze, and high chloride content, such as:

• Coastal highways

• Ferry terminals

• Offshore wind farm platforms

FRP rebar resists chemical degradation and maintains mechanical performance over decades. Unlike steel, which begins corroding when exposed to only a few ppm of chloride, FRP rebar tolerates high-chloride environments without compromising structure.

4. Standards and Engineering Guidelines

FRP reinforcement is now recognized in many engineering standards:

• ACI 440.1R (Guide for the Design and Construction of Structural Concrete Reinforced with FRP Bars)

• CSA S807 (Specification for FRP Materials)

• ASTM D7957 (Standard Specification for Solid Round Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Bars)

These documents guide the safe and effective use of FRP rebar in load-bearing, long-term infrastructure under aggressive environmental conditions.

Engineers increasingly integrate GFRP rebar into durability-driven designs, reducing total cost of ownership for critical public assets.