Design and construction with non-metallic reinforcement

This presentation provides information on designing in accordance with the DAfStb (German Committee for Structural Concrete) guideline on “Concrete components with non-metallic reinforcement” and an approved reinforcement grid. The published document provides a generally accepted technical rule for this new construction method, which, combined with corresponding product approvals for reinforcement grids and bars made of glass and carbon fibers for a wide range of applications, eliminates the need for the previously required project-related and general construction technique permits. This is a great relief for users.

Solidian is the first manufacturer of non-metallic reinforcement to obtain the required product approval (national technical approval) for solidian Grid, a reinforcing grid made of carbon fibers, parallel to the drafting of the guideline. In addition, glass fiber reinforcing bars are currently in the product approval process.

This presentation highlights relevant differences to Eurocode 2, as well as design and construction methods pertaining to flexural and shear design, crack widths, and anchorage verification. Data sheets and relevant geometric and mechanical parameters are discussed in detail.

In addition, a selection of completed projects illustrates how design has changed and evolved after publication of the guidance document. Whereas expert assessments or even component tests were required in the past, the design can now simply be carried out in accordance with the guideline.