Technical Document CNR-DT 204/2006, Guide for the Design and Construction of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Structures

The purpose of this guide is to provide an advisory document for the design, construction and control of concrete structures reinforced with FRP bars. The approach followed is that of the limit states semi-probabilistic method, while the format adopted is that of ‘principles’ and ‘practical rules’ in compliance with the classical style of Eurocodes. A guideline, by its nature, is not a binding regulation, but merely represents an aid for practitioners interested in the field of composites. Nevertheless, the responsibility of the operated choices remains with the designer. Within the seismic field, the methods assuming plastic redistribution capability are not applicable, since the mechanical behavior of concrete elements reinforced with FRP bars is essentially elastic. Consequently, the nearly complete lack of ductility displayed by FRP reinforced concrete structures shall be taken into account. In the case of primary structural elements subjected to seismic actions, the design spectrum shall be derived from the elastic spectrum by setting the structural factor to an appropriate value to account for the elastic behavior shown by an element reinforced with FRP bars.