FRP PRESTRESSING IN THE U.S.A.

Abstract

The properties of fiber reinforced polymer tendons, high tensile strength, low creep, moderate modulus of elasticity, and a high resistance to the corrosive elements found in concrete structures, have been identified for some 15 years. These properties seem to make them prime candidates for prestressing tendons in concrete structures, yet there have been only few structures designed using FRP prestressing tendons. This article provides an overview of the development of FRP prestressed structures in the United States, the successes that have been accomplished and the difficulties still to be overcome.