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gtofrp@gtofrp.comViews: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-06-16 Origin: Site
As the construction industry evolves, the demand for longer-lasting, corrosion-resistant materials has brought fiberglass rebar (also called FRP or GFRP rebar) into the spotlight. But how does it truly compare to traditional steel reinforcement? Let’s examine the key differences in strength, weight, corrosion resistance, lifespan, and cost.
| Property | Fiberglass Rebar (FRP) | Steel Rebar |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ~1000 MPa | ~400–600 MPa |
| Weight | 4 times lighter than steel | Heavy; requires more labor |
| Modulus of Elasticity | Lower (~45 GPa) | Higher (~200 GPa) |
| Bond to Concrete | Good with sand-coated surface | Excellent |
Conclusion: FRP rebar offers higher tensile strength and lighter weight but is less stiff, which may affect crack width control in some structural designs.
Steel is prone to rust when exposed to moisture, chloride, or chemical environments—leading to cracking and reduced structural capacity over time. In contrast, fiberglass rebar is:
100% non-corrosive
Resistant to acidic, alkaline, and saline conditions
Ideal for marine, chemical, and underground applications
Fiberglass rebar can achieve a service life of 100+ years, especially in aggressive environments where steel might fail within 20–30 years without heavy maintenance.
| Cost Factor | Fiberglass Rebar | Steel Rebar |
|---|---|---|
| Material Cost (per ton) | Higher initial price | Lower per-ton cost |
| Installation Cost | Lower (lighter, easier to handle) | Higher (requires machinery) |
| Maintenance | Virtually none | Requires anti-corrosion treatment |
| Total Lifecycle Cost | Lower in aggressive environments | Higher due to frequent repair |
While fiberglass rebar has a higher unit price, its reduced labor, transport, and zero corrosion maintenance costs make it more economical in the long run—especially in large infrastructure or coastal projects.
FRP rebar is now widely used in:
Bridge decks exposed to de-icing salts
Sea ports and harbors subjected to chloride attack
Tunnels and metros where magnetic neutrality is required
Hospitals and laboratories to avoid conductivity interference
Steel is still favored for projects requiring high stiffness or when initial cost is the primary concern. But for projects prioritizing durability and long-term return, fiberglass is rapidly becoming the material of choice.
Governments and engineering bodies in North America, Europe, and Asia are increasingly shifting specifications toward non-metallic reinforcements for durability. Organizations like ACI, ASTM, and CSA have established FRP design codes, further accelerating its adoption.
At GTOFRP™, we’ve seen demand for FRP rebar rise across infrastructure, municipal, and marine sectors due to stricter sustainability and lifecycle performance standards.
