Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

<p>Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) are being used increasingly as internal reinforcement in concrete structures as a cost-effective alternative to conventional steel bars. Given their corrosion resistance, light weight, and high strength, FRP bars have been used in Canada for the last 20 years for infrastructure such bridge decks, parking garages, and continuous pavements. Despite research and product certification, FRP durability&mdash;especially under severe environmental conditions&mdash;stands out as the most critical research topic. The lack of appropriate data about the long-term durability poses a major obstacle to broader acceptance and mass implementation of FRP reinforcements.</p> <p>To address this concern, the applicants will conduct a research program investigating the effects of various physical/environmental/load/synergetic parameters on the long-term performance of new advanced materials and FRP products incorporating a new class of fibers, resin systems with low diffusion/permeability, and new nanomaterials. The applicants&rsquo; research activities will include the determination of fundamental properties of control (unconditioned) and conditioned (environmental exposure, loaded) FRP samples to assess degradation mechanisms (i.e., fiber dominated, matrix dominated, and interface dominated or combined mechanisms) and FRP penetration by moisture or chemical solutions (such as alkaline concrete). In particular, matrix degradation and plasticization will be monitored using specialized modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) testing. Moreover, projects involving the use of nanoparticles as a barrier and reinforcing material in FRP composites must include very accurate MDSC measurements in order to investigate the effect of these particles on the polymeric chain mobility, which governs the material&rsquo;s mechanical strength and diffusion rate/permeability. </p> <p>The proposed research will (1) provide new knowledge and scientific insights into the factors controlling the durability performance from the FRP materials incorporating a new class of fibers, resins with low diffusion/permeability, and new nanomaterials such as nanocomposites to concrete elements / field structures reinforced with FRP; (2) provide reliable models to predict the long-term durability performance (service life) based on short-term laboratory aging tests and field test data from in-service structures; (3) yield new durability guidelines; and (4) influence upcoming codes, standards, and materials specifications nationally and internationally. </p> <p>21 HQP (12 PhD and 4 MASc students, 2 postdoctoral fellows, and 3 technicians) will receive advanced training on the long-term behavior of FRPs and nanomaterials using this equipment. </p>