Discrete Fiber Reinforced Polymer Systems for Repair of Concrete Structures: Polyurea-Fiber Characterization Results

Synopsis: This research investigated the development and characterization of different discrete fiber-reinforced polyurea systems for infrastructure applications. The behavior of various systems consisting of several polyureas with different fiber configurations was evaluated. Polyurea coating systems were previously evaluated for blast mitigation and impact resistance, and showed to be adequate in containing debris scatter from blast and impact. The purpose of further testing was an effort to develop a polyurea system for multi-hazard and/or repair-retrofit applications. The addition of fiber to a polymer coating provides improved stiffness and strength to the composite system while the polyurea base material provides ductility. Coupon tensile testing was conducted to determine the material mechanical properties in this study. The two parameters that were varied throughout testing were fiber volume fraction and fiber length. E-Glass fiber was used during specimen fabrication. Several optimal composite configurations of polyurea and fiber resulted from this coupon testing.