The American Concrete Institute, through the work of ACI Committee 440, has released ACI CODE-440.11-22: Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete Reinforced with Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Bars. An ANSI-approved consensus process was key to developing the code. The code addresses structural systems, members, and connections, including cast-in-place, precast, nonprestressed, and composite construction.
This is the first comprehensive building code covering the use of nonmetallic, GFRP reinforcing bars in structural concrete applications. GFRP reinforcement has been in use for decades as an alternative to steel reinforcement because of its non-corrosive, non-magnetic, and lightweight properties. This code represents a milestone for this technology, and mirrors ACI 318-19 with provisions for designing GFRP reinforced concrete beams, one-way and two-way slabs, columns, walls, connections, and foundations. Other model codes and standards can directly reference ACI CODE-440.11-22 to allow for widespread, responsible use of this important technology.
“What really sets this code apart is that it is dependent on ACI 318-19,” says Will Gold, Past Chair, ACI Committee 440. “With this new code, almost any structural element covered by ACI 318 can be designed using GFRP reinforcement instead of steel reinforcement. A great deal of new research and validation was required for the code to address elements such as connections and columns. The hard work and efforts of many ACI Committee 440 members made development of this new code possible, and it represents a tremendous accomplishment by the committee.”
ACI Committee 440
ACI Committee 440’s mission is to develop and report information on fiber reinforced polymer for internal and external reinforcement of concrete. Committee 440 has written and maintains a number of design guides, materials and construction specifications. They are also responsible for reports, and technical notes on the use of FRP in structural concrete applications.
To either learn more about ACI or to learn more about involvement, visit concrete.org.
About The American Concrete Institute
The American Concrete Institute is a leading global authority for the development, dissemination, and adoption of its consensus-based standards, technical resources, and educational, training, & certification programs. Founded in 1904, ACI has its headquarters in Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA. It has with a regional office in Dubai, UAE, and also a resource center in Southern California. Visit concrete.org for further information.
