Durability of isophthalic polyester composites used in civil engineering applications (2)
Published: 2003
Publication Name: Polymers & Polymer Composites
Publication URL: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/096739110401200302
Abstract:
Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites are increasingly used in civil infrastructure
applications, primarily because of their high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion
resistance. Further deployment of FRP in the construction market will be accelerated by
using low-cost, durable matrix materials. In this paper, published research on the
durability of a low-cost matrix, isophthalic polyester (IPE), is reviewed and the results
are compared to the durability of the more expensive vinyl ester (VE). The objective is to
evaluate the suitability of IPE in civil engineering applications, particularly in conjunction
with concrete and high alkaline environments. The analysis indicates that, although
vinyl esters are generally more durable than isophthalic polyesters, the performance
difference does not always appear to be very significant. More importantly, the literature
review revealed that the data on the durability of IPE in concrete and alkaline solutions
is of limited usefulness. Since this is the kind of information needed to evaluate IPEs
effectiveness in construction applications, further research in these areas is recommended.