Rational use of advanced composites in concrete

Knowledge of the properties of advanced composites leads to conclusions about the most logical ways in which they can be used. The paper considers the elastic properties, the bond properties and the lack of ductility, and concludes that structures should be designed as over-reinforced, with partially bonded internal tendons, and resin-free external tendons. It concludes that enhancement of the compression zone is possible by fibre-reinforcing or confining the concrete, and that requirements for shear need to be totally reworked in the absence of plasticity. It considers the economic justification of advanced composites in concrete, and concludes that innovation is still required, but now on a commercial scale.