Concrete reinforced by brained fibre composite rods

This paper describes the work that is being done at the University of Minho concerning the development of braided rods for concrete reinforcement. A preliminary research study has been conducted to understand the mechanical behaviour of braided fabrics. The tensile properties of these samples have been evaluated and the results presented. In order to produce braided reinforced composite rods to use as a concrete reinforcement, a special technique has been developed using a standard vertical braiding machine. Special samples have been prepared and tested to evaluate the adherence between both materials involved. The tensile and bending properties of braided reinforced composite rods have been evaluated and the results obtained presented and discussed. Concrete beams reinforced by braided composite rods, have been prepared and tested. The results obtained are presented and compared with those obtained for conventional concrete beams reinforced by steel rods