Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Composites in Civil Engineering Application—A Comprehensive Review

TLDR

Carbon fibre‑reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are emerging as a promising alternative to conventional materials in civil engineering. The paper aims to inform researchers and practitioners on using CFRP composites in civil engineering applications. The review surveys CFRP use in structural elements, examines their fatigue, corrosion resistance, stiffness, and strength, evaluates advantages and disadvantages, discusses current trends and prospects, compares studies, and highlights emerging nanostructured, hybrid, and self‑sensing fibers. CFRP composites enhance sustainability by extending structural durability and longevity.

Abstract

In civil engineering, carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional materials. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the application of CFRP composites in various building structural elements and their characteristics and properties, such as their fatigue and corrosion resistance, stiffness and high strength, and incorporation of temperature factors. The advantages and disadvantages of CFRP composites and the current trends and prospects for CFRP composites in the construction sector are discussed. In addition, the article compares various studies on CFRP composites to shed light on their performance and potential limitations. This paper aims to provide useful information to researchers and practitioners interested in using CFRP composites in civil engineering applications. In addition, the article discusses emerging materials in CFRP, such as nanostructured carbon fibres, hybrid fibre reinforcement, and self-sensing CFRP. Additionally, the paper outlines how CFRP composites promote sustainability by increasing structural durability and longevity.