The Need

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement is increasingly being adopted in infrastructure and construction applications due to its corrosion resistance and durability. However, joining or terminating these reinforcement elements remains a significant challenge. Many established coupling and anchorage approaches were originally developed for steel reinforcement and are not well suited for composite materials. As the use of FRP reinforcement expands, there is a growing need for reliable, durable, and fully non-corrosive connection technologies that can support structural performance requirements in demanding environments.

The Technology

OSU engineers have developed a composite-based reinforcement connection platform designed to mechanically and chemically transfer loads between structural reinforcement elements without relying on metallic hardware. The technology utilizes engineered composite materials arranged in a specialized multi-layer architecture to create a high-strength connection capable of supporting demanding structural applications. The approach is designed to work with advanced reinforcement materials while maintaining compatibility with manufacturing and installation methods commonly used in the construction industry.

Commercial Applications

• Bridges, transportation infrastructure, and marine structures
• End-anchor systems for concrete construction
• Water, wastewater, and coastal infrastructure projects

Benefits/Advantages

• Fully non-metallic design eliminates corrosion concerns
• Designed specifically for composite reinforcement materials
• Adaptable architecture