Bond performance of CFRP/steel composites: state of the art review

Abstract

Over the past decade, CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer) has been established as an excellent strengthening material to use in the metallic structures. Performance of CFRP strengthened steel members is directly dependent on the quality and the integrity of the adhesive bond. However, the insufficient knowledge on the bond behaviour of the CFRP/steel bonded joints is the major drawback in the lacking of real world applications of this system. Bonding procedure, including the surface preparation, different loading conditions and environmental conditions experienced can critically affect the bond behaviour and its performance. Studies have shown that dynamic loadings (fatigue/impact) can contribute to the strength and stiffness reduction of the bond while aggravating the results in severe exposed conditions. Also, these structures are frequently exposed to environmental conditions such as temperature variations, humidity conditions, UV radiation and marine environment. The consequence is severe when these exposure conditions are combined. This paper presents a state of the art review on bond performance of CFRP strengthened steel members for different load effects.