Scientists from VUT have applied for a patent for non-metallic reinforcement of concrete

Brno - Scientists from the Brno University of Technology (VUT) have applied for a Czech patent for non-metallic reinforcement of concrete elements. It is made of glass and carbon fibers and was developed at the Advanced Construction Materials Center AdMaS in collaboration with the company PREFA Kompozity. Its uniqueness lies, for example, in its exceptional resistance to fire. A panel with a concrete cover layer 15 millimeters thick can withstand flames for at least one hour, which is a unique feat even on a global scale, said Jitka Vanýsková, spokesperson for Brno University of Technology, to ČTK today.
    "This fire resistance means that the load-bearing capacity of the ceiling with this reinforcement is guaranteed for at least 60 minutes, so the building will not collapse during that time and people will have time to get to safety," said Professor Petr Štěpánek from the Faculty of Civil Engineering at VUT and the project leader of AdMaS. Non-metallic reinforcements also have other properties that make them particularly suitable for structures where reliability and maximum resistance to external influences are necessary.
    A positive aspect is, for example, that significantly thinner layers of concrete are sufficient to protect the structure against mechanical impacts and aggressive effects. The use of the new glass-carbon reinforcement saves about 50 kilograms of concrete per square meter for a panel ceiling, which would otherwise only serve to protect the metal reinforcement. "Structures are thus much lighter and more economical," Štěpánek stated.
    "For example, in the United States or Canada, bridge decks are mainly made of non-metallic reinforcements because their resistance to salting or severe frosts significantly extends the bridge's lifespan," added another team member, David Horák. Non-metallic reinforcement has two to three times greater tensile strength compared to traditional metal reinforcement.
    The biggest disadvantage of traditional concrete with metal reinforcement is the necessity of later renovations. Due to gradual corrosion, the appearance and reliability of the structural elements deteriorate. Such problems do not arise with non-metallic reinforcements, making the resulting constructions maintenance-free from this perspective. Nevertheless, steel is and will likely remain the most commonly used material for concrete reinforcement due to its cost advantage.
    Brno specialists have long been engaged in the development of non-metallic reinforcements and have received many awards for it. While international interest in their work is high, domestic investors reportedly do not seek out new solutions. For them, the lowest purchase price is primary, and they most often fail to calculate how much they will need to spend on additional necessary repairs.