FRP Rebar: Cost, Strength, and Applications | GTOFRP

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1. What Is FRP Rebar?

FRP rebar is a structural reinforcement made from continuous glass fibers embedded in a polymer resin matrix. Unlike traditional steel, it does not corrode, rust, or conduct electricity, making it ideal for harsh or chemically aggressive environments.

Key characteristics:

  • High tensile strength (600–1200 MPa)

  • Lightweight (¼ of steel's weight)

  • Non-corrosive and non-magnetic

  • Electrically and thermally non-conductive

  • Easy to handle and install

GTOFRP manufactures FRP rebars using precision pultrusion and winding technology, ensuring consistent fiber alignment and performance in every bar.


2. FRP Rebar Cost (2025 Update)

The average FRP rebar cost per meter varies depending on diameter, resin system, and fiber content.
While the initial price is slightly higher than steel, the lifecycle cost is significantly lower due to zero corrosion and minimal maintenance.

Diameter (mm)Average Cost (USD/m)Equivalent Steel Cost (USD/m)Weight Saving
Ø6$0.40 – $0.60$0.35 – $0.5075% lighter
Ø10$0.70 – $1.00$0.50 – $0.8070% lighter
Ø12$0.90 – $1.30$0.70 – $1.1065% lighter
Ø16$1.40 – $1.80$1.20 – $1.5060% lighter

Main cost factors:

  • Fiber type (E-glass vs. basalt vs. carbon)

  • Resin system (vinyl ester, epoxy, polyester)

  • Surface treatment (sand-coated, ribbed, helically wrapped)

  • Manufacturing tolerance and testing standards

Learn more about FRP rebar pricing and specifications on the GTOFRP product catalog page.


3. FRP vs. Steel Rebar: Performance Comparison

PropertyFRP RebarSteel Rebar
Tensile Strength600–1200 MPa400–600 MPa
Modulus of Elasticity45–60 GPa200 GPa
Density1.9 g/cm³7.8 g/cm³
Corrosion ResistanceExcellentPoor
Magnetic ConductivityNoneHigh
Service Life75–100 years20–40 years
Electrical ConductivityNoneConductive
Thermal ExpansionLowModerate

Although FRP rebar is less stiff than steel, it outperforms in long-term durability, corrosion resistance, and overall lifecycle value — especially in marine or chemical environments.


4. Manufacturing Process

GTOFRP's pultrusion and continuous winding processes ensure high-quality reinforcement bars with superior consistency.

Production steps:

  1. Continuous glass fiber roving is impregnated with resin.

  2. Fibers are aligned and pulled through a heated die.

  3. Surface treatments such as sand-coating or spiral wrapping are applied.

  4. Bars are cut and labeled by diameter and batch number.

This process guarantees dimensional accuracy, tensile uniformity, and ISO-certified performance.

See the GTOFRP FRP Production Line Overview for equipment and process details.


5. Applications of FRP Rebar

FRP rebar is ideal for environments where steel would corrode or lose strength.

Typical applications include:

  • Bridges and coastal structures – Saltwater-resistant reinforcement

  • Tunnels and subways – Non-conductive reinforcement around power lines

  • Chemical plants – Corrosion-proof foundation and containment walls

  • Marine infrastructure – Piers, docks, and harbor decks

  • Roadways and bridges – Lightweight and durable structures

  • Power and utility projects – Electrical isolation and magnetic transparency

For real-world installations, visit the GTOFRP Project Gallery for completed infrastructure applications.


6. Strength and Technical Properties

PropertyUnitFRP Rebar (Typical)
Tensile StrengthMPa800–1200
Elastic ModulusGPa45–60
Bond Strength (Concrete)MPa12–18
Densityg/cm³1.9
Thermal ConductivityW/m·K0.3
Water Absorption%<0.25

These properties make FRP rebar an excellent choice for sustainable construction under extreme exposure conditions.


7. Installation Guidelines

FRP rebars are easy to cut, bend (pre-shaped), and install using conventional tools.

Installation notes:

  • Do not bend on-site using heat (use pre-bent bars).

  • Cut using diamond blade or carbide saw.

  • Tie with plastic or stainless-steel wire (avoid ferrous ties).

  • Maintain proper cover thickness to prevent UV degradation.

Explore the detailed FRP Rebar Installation Guide on GTOFRP for step-by-step visuals.


8. Lifecycle & Environmental Benefits

Compared with steel, FRP rebar delivers:

  • 70% less embodied energy in production

  • Zero corrosion waste

  • Longer design life reducing replacement needs

  • Compatibility with sustainable concrete technologies

GTOFRP products align with green building certifications (LEED, BREEAM) and government sustainability requirements.


9. Customization Options

GTOFRP supports full customization for industrial and civil projects:

  • Diameter range: 4mm–40mm

  • Surface: sand-coated, ribbed, wrapped

  • Colors: gray, green, yellow (UV-resistant)

  • Resin type: vinyl ester, epoxy, polyester

  • Tensile grade selection per design code

Contact the GTOFRP Engineering & Procurement Team for tailored reinforcement solutions.


10. Conclusion

FRP rebar has become a core material in modern infrastructure — offering lightweight strength, corrosion resistance, and unmatched durability.
With its high tensile performance and long service life, it's the ideal alternative to steel for coastal, chemical, and high-moisture environments.

GTOFRP provides tested and certified FRP rebar systems, along with full engineering support for global projects.
Learn more about GFRP rebar specifications, pricing, and availability on the
GTOFRP FRP Rebar page.