Fiber-reinforced polymers as reinforcement for timber structural elements

This chapter provides a comprehensive summary of recent developments in the use of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) as reinforcement for timber elements and joints. The constituents of FRP composites are first introduced. Next, the typical applications of FRP in the reinforcement of wood elements and joints are discussed. The long-term performance of adhesively bonded FRP-reinforced wood structures under different environmental effects (i.e. moisture, temperature, coupled moisture and temperature, and fire) are reviewed and discussed. Furthermore, the in situ quality control for the bonding of FRP to wood substrate and the assessment of FRP-reinforced wood structures are described. Finally, perspectives on the application of such systems are given.