Interaction of environmental factors on fiber-reinforced polymer composites and their inspection and maintenance: A review

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs) are becoming a common method for repair and rehabilitation of civil engineering structures. FRP composites are common because they are applied to the outer surface of the structure and therefore are easy to apply and cause little disturbance during the repair. FRP may prove to be inexpensive and durable. However the long-term durability of FRP is not comprehensively documented. This article summarizes and discusses much of the currently published research on the durability of FRP composites, with an emphasis on the interaction of environmental factors and current trends in inspections and maintenance.