Published Paper Details:

The global construction industry is experiencing increased pressure on adopting sustainable materials and methods for addressing environmental challenges and resource scarcity. Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) has gained prominence as an alternative to traditional steel reinforcement in structural applications like beams and columns. GFRP provides several distinct advantages over traditional steel reinforcement. One of its most significant benefits is that it provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, strong resistance to corrosion, and non-magnetic properties. These properties make GFRP highly suitable for corrosion-relevant fields, like coastal cities, chemical plants, and wastewater treatment facilities, which could be exposed to corrosive conditions. Unlike steel, GFRP will not rust or oxidize and, hence its maintenance needs are greatly reduced as well as extends the lifespan of structures. From an environmental point of view, GFRP production has a lower carbon footprint than steel, but issues with end-of-life recyclability remain a concern. There is ongoing work to develop more sustainable manufacturing practices and improve the recyclability of GFRP, such as using bio-based resins. This paper examines the economic viability of GFRP and finds that although the initial material costs are higher than the related steel product, the long-term advantages of GFRP, such as increased durability and reduced maintenance, may make it a relatively cost-effective solution in a structure's lifecycle. The review concludes with an identification of the main challenges and opportunities to promote the use of GFRP for the common adoption within the construction industry. Therefore, GFRP is a viable and sustainable substitute for traditional steel rebar in cases where durability, lightweight properties, and resistance to corrosion are a critical requirement in the environment.