ACI 440.1R-15: Guide for the Design and Construction of Structural Concrete Reinforced with Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Bars

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials have emerged as an alternative for producing reinforcing bars for concrete structures. Fiber-reinforced polymer reinforcing bars offer advantages over steel reinforcement because they are noncorrosive. Some FRP bars are nonconductive as well. Due to other differences in the physical and mechanical behavior of FRP materials versus steel, unique guidance on the engineering and construction of concrete structures reinforced with FRP bars is necessary. Other countries and regions, such as Japan, Canada, and Europe have established design and construction guidelines specifically for the use of FRP bars as concrete reinforcement. This guide offers general information on the history and use of FRP reinforcement, a description of the unique material properties of FRP, and guidelines for the design and construction of structural concrete members reinforced with FRP bars. This guide is based on the knowledge gained from worldwide experimental research, analytical work, and field applications of FRP reinforcement.