FRP anchors: recent advances in research and understanding

The effectiveness of strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) members with externally bonded fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites may be compromised by premature debonding failure of the FRP prior to its ultimate strength being reached. An anchorage system which can delay or even eliminate debonding failure is therefore of most importance in order to improve the efficiency, reliability and safety of FRP strengthening. Anchors made from FRP (known as FRP anchors) are an attractive form of anchorage as they are non-corrosive and can be applied to a wide variety of structural elements. Surprisingly, little research has been undertaken on the characterisation of such anchors though and it is this limitation in knowledge which is prohibiting their rational design and wide-scale use. This paper in turn presents recent advances in research and understanding of the strength and behaviour of FRP anchors. In addition, future research needs are also identified.