Residual properties and durability of GFRP composite exposed to alkaline solution and natural weather for a decade

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the residual thermal and mechanical properties of pultruded GFRP composite rebar following a decade of conditioning in an alkaline solution and exposure to natural weather conditions. The study focuses on evaluating the changes in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer matrix and its impact on the rebar's mechanical performance. The results indicate that the Tg retained approximately 94.7% of its initial value, with the decrease attributed to the plasticizing effect of absorbed water. The flexural modulus, flexural strength, and transverse shear strength were found to retain 91.8%, 77.2%, and 97.3% of their original values, respectively. The reductions in strength and stiffness were primarily attributed to a weakening in the bonding between the fibres and the polymer matrix. Fractographic analysis revealed that the failure of the plasticized and softened polymer matrix contributed to the observed reductions in strength. Interestingly, the short beam shear strength remained relatively unchanged, as the diffusion of water into the core of the rebar at ambient temperatures had a minimal effect. This slower water diffusion in the core led to insignificant degradation of the short beam shear strength.