Concrete reinforced by braided fibre composite rods

Abstract

One of the most serious problems affecting concrete is corrosion of the steel reinforcement. Corrosion may occur due to reaction of lime present in hydrated cement with carbon dioxide or to the action of chlorides. The braiding technique is probably the most ancient production process for textile structures. Normally used for ropes and cables, braided fabrics are also very interesting for composite reinforcements due to their characteristics: in-plane multiaxial orientation, conformability, excellent damage tolerance and cost. The braiding technique can produce a wide range of preforms for composite reinforcements (T´s, I’s, hollow fabrics).