Durability of FRP Sheets and Wrapped Specimens with Them in Tidal Zone of Persian Gulf

In this paper in order to the evaluation of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sheets’ durability in less time, marine simulator was designed and built similar to the tidal zone of Persian gulf. In addition of tidal modeling, cyclic radiation of UV, high emperature and humidity were other parameters that were controlled in this environment. The changes in the mechanical properties of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) sheets, bonding strength of sheets to concrete and the effect of wrapping were investigated by putting the specimens in the marine environment. Ultimate strength and elastic modulus of CFRP sheets decreased by 2% and 18%, respectively. These values were 28.8% and 17% for GFRP sheets, respectively. Bonding strength reduction of FRP sheets to concrete was 13.9% and 15.9%, respectively for CFRP and GFRP sheets. Also ultimate strength of confned specimens was decreased by 11.6%, 41% and 34%, respectively by wrapping with one layer of CFRP, one and two layers of GFRP after exposure. The reduction value of modulus of plastic region was 17%, 18% and 12% for these specimens respectively.