Behaviour of concrete-filled glass fiber reinforced composite model piles under lateral loads

Pile foundations serve as one of the most important structural components in the design and construction of off-shore and on-shore facilities such as oil-rig platforms, jetties and naval bases. Conventional piling materials such as concrete, steel and timber deteriorate in the marine environment and in corrosive soils. Recently the use of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) wraps has become quite apparent as repair materials to rehabilitate piles in such conditions. Millions of dollars are spent each year to carry out these rehabilitation works or to replace damaged piles. FRP composites are used in a wide range of structural applications where high strength, corrosion resistance and long term durability are of primary importance in harsh operating environments. Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite piles could therefore be a possible alternative to overcome the continuous degradation of conventional piles. The present study incorporates an experimental investigation of the lateral load capacity of GFRP composite piles. The results indicate that GFRP composite piles can carry a higher load compared to concrete plies.