Testing methods and design specifications for FRP-prestressed concrete members: A review of current practices and case studies

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) have been developed as replacement materials for steel bars and tendons in concrete structural members for decades. These materials offer corrosion resistance, perfect durability, and high strength capacity, and therefore can be utilized as the main reinforcements to strengthen reinforced concrete (RC) members. Recently, several studies have focused on investigating the properties of pre-stressed FRP and steel-reinforced concrete structural members. Considering the rapid growth of the use of FRP in the construction industry and the development of various types of tendons, it is necessary to have a comprehensive review article that systematically addresses this development. This review focuses on the engineering properties and durability performance of concrete structures prestressed with FRP. It also discusses the regular FRP composite materials, their features, properties, and applications. Despite some disadvantages and negative effects of utilizing FRP tendons as effective alternatives for steel tendons, such as additional cost, lack of composite materials, and complicated production process, there are still advantages and benefits of utilizing FRP tendons in the construction industry. •The effects of various types of tendons on the properties and performance of prestressed concrete were discussed.•The shear strength of CFRP, BFRP, and hybrid CFRP was similar to the shear strengths of steel rod concrete.•The critical temperatures for loss of strength were 250 °C and 325 °C for CFRP and GFRP tendon concrete, respectively.•AFRP tendon concrete has low flammability and excellent resistance to elevated temperature.