STRENGTHENING OF SUBMERGED PILES - Using Fibre Reinforced Polymer Materials

Abstract

Submerged reinforced concrete structures exposed to harsh environment are prone to extreme deterioration and the need from maintenance of such structures is increasing. Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) materials is an emerging method to revive structures, due to flexibility and high strength properties it is a reliable and effective repair method. Introducing Fibre reinforced polymers to submerged structures aims to reduce high porosity of concrete and act as a protective layer against the exposed harsh environment. The aim of this thesis is to identify optimal inspection methods to improve the feasibility of repair using FRP for submerged piles. The thesis is methodically performed by conducting a comprehensive literature review, conducting interviews with the experts in the industry to understand why the conventional repair methods are used and to compare and elaborate how the use of FRP repair method could be effective. The conclusions drawn through the interviews is that there is a demand for new methods of inspection and repair. The comprehensive literature review revealed that FRP is used for repair in the atmospheric zone and splash zone to increase the durability and extend the service life of submerged structures. Using the FRP wrap method to repair the piles have shown a reduced rate of corrosion and minimal porosity.