Performance of hybrid bars in corrosion and flexure in concrete beams

Abstract

Corrosion of reinforcing steel is a serious problem worldwide; the problem of steel rebar corrosion leads to a reduction in the lifespan of the structure and adds to the maintenance costs. Many techniques have been developed in recent past to reduce corrosion but none of these solutions seem to be applicable as an adequate solution to the corrosion problem. Besides the use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) rebar, hybrid rebar consisting of both FRP and steel are also being tried to control the problem of steel corrosion. This research evaluates the performance of hybrid rebar in corrosion resistance by inducing natural corrosion in a number of concrete cylinders with a hybrid rebar embedded symmetrically. The research also studies the performance of hybrid rebar as a tension reinforcement in concrete beams.