@ Senior Engineer, Civil Engineering Office,CEDD
Topic: The Use of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Concrete for Marine Structures
ABSTRACT:
The Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) is pioneering the use of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) to enhance the resilience and sustainability of Hong Kong’s marine infrastructure. Marine structures with reinforced concrete are continuously subject to harsh environmental conditions, where the potential ingress of chloride from seawater increases the risk of steel corrosion, compromising structural integrity. GFRP, a composite material comprised of glass fibers in a polymeric resin matrix, provides a robust alternative with superior resistance to corrosion and a higher strength-to-weight ratio, making it an ideal alternative to steel reinforcement for marine reinforced concrete structures.
By embracing GFRP, CEDD seeks to improve structural durability while lowering maintenance costs and minimizing environmental impact. GFRP offers a reduction in carbon emissions during production compared to steel, supporting CEDD’s commitment to greener infrastructure. Our cost benefit analysis indicates that GFRP’s adoption can result in lower long-term life cycle costs, contributing to a more sustainable approach to construction.
In collaboration with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), CEDD has completed trial projects utilizing GFRP in marine structures such as the Pak Kok Pier and Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station. These projects are under ongoing monitoring, employing strain sensors to evaluate GFRP’s durability and performance in marine conditions. Early data supports GFRP’s feasibility for broader applications across Hong Kong.
Looking ahead, CEDD is working with PolyU to develop comprehensive design guidelines to standardize the use of GFRP in marine structures. The guidelines will provide engineers with a clear framework, enabling wider adoption of GFRP in both new builds and the strengthening of existing marine structures.