Corrosive and outdoor environments place significant demands on structural materials. Moisture, chemicals, UV exposure, and temperature variation can rapidly degrade traditional materials, leading to increased maintenance and reduced service life. FRP structural profiles are widely used in these harsh conditions due to their inherent resistance to corrosion and environmental degradation. This article examines how FRP profiles perform across different aggressive environments and outlines key design considerations for long-term reliability.
FRP structural profiles are increasingly used in industrial and infrastructure projects, but their successful application depends on correct design and selection. Unlike traditional metallic materials, FRP behaves as an anisotropic composite, requiring a different engineering approach. This article outlines the key design and selection considerations for FRP structural profiles, focusing on load behavior, deflection control, connections, fire performance, tolerances, and common selection mistakes.
Material selection plays a decisive role in structural performance, durability, and long-term cost. While steel, aluminum, and wood remain widely used in construction and industrial projects, FRP structural profiles offer a fundamentally different combination of mechanical and environmental performance. This article compares FRP structural profiles with traditional materials from an engineering perspective, supporting informed material decisions based on service environment, maintenance expectations, and lifecycle value.