Engineering and Technology
| Open Access | Fibre-Reinforced Polymer–Based Strategies for Repair, Strengthening, and Long-Term Performance of Reinforced Concrete and Masonry Infrastructure
Dr. Lucas M. Reinhardt , Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, The University of Melbourne, AustraliaAbstract
The accelerated deterioration of reinforced concrete and masonry infrastructure has emerged as a defining challenge for contemporary civil engineering practice, particularly in regions characterized by aging construction stock, aggressive environmental exposure, and evolving functional demands. Conventional repair and strengthening techniques, while historically effective, increasingly exhibit limitations related to durability, constructability, and compatibility with modern performance expectations. In this context, fibre-reinforced polymer systems have gained prominence as advanced materials capable of addressing both structural and durability deficiencies through lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and adaptable interventions. This research article presents a comprehensive and theoretically grounded examination of fibre-reinforced polymer–based repair and rehabilitation strategies for reinforced concrete and masonry structures, integrating insights from international standards, historic case studies, seismic retrofitting research, and contemporary construction practices. Particular attention is given to the role of fibre-reinforced polymer systems in extending service life, enhancing load-carrying capacity, and improving seismic resilience while minimizing disruption to existing structures, as extensively discussed in recent construction technology literature (Bandela, 2025).
The study adopts a qualitative, literature-driven methodological framework, synthesizing guidance from established codes of practice, including Indian and international standards, alongside peer-reviewed investigations into masonry monitoring, dynamic testing, and retrofitting techniques. Rather than presenting experimental data, the article interprets documented outcomes and scholarly debates to develop an integrated understanding of how fibre-reinforced polymer solutions interact with reinforced concrete and masonry substrates under varying loading and environmental conditions. The results highlight consistent performance improvements associated with fibre-reinforced polymer confinement, flexural strengthening, and shear enhancement, while also identifying critical challenges related to long-term bond behavior, fire resistance, and regulatory harmonization. Through an extended discussion, the article situates fibre-reinforced polymer technologies within broader theoretical discourses on structural resilience, heritage preservation, and sustainable construction, offering nuanced interpretations of both their transformative potential and inherent limitations. The research concludes by articulating future directions for policy development, standardization, and interdisciplinary research necessary to fully integrate fibre-reinforced polymer systems into mainstream repair and rehabilitation practice.
Keywords
Fibre-reinforced polymers, reinforced concrete repair, structural rehabilitation, masonry strengthening
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Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Lucas M. Reinhardt
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