CFRP Reinforcement Connector and Connection Method

Cross-reinforcement connector that integrates thermoplastic CFRP by wrapping it with a thermosetting reinforcement and cover, followed by heating

This technology is a CFRP reinforcement connector and connection method that involves inserting the protruding members of second and third CFRP reinforcements into the coupling grooves of a first CFRP reinforcement to cross them, wrapping the assembly with a thermosetting reinforcement and cover, and then heating to fuse the reinforcements together while curing the outer shell.

Reinforced concrete structures often suffer from reduced safety and durability due to cracks and spalling caused by the corrosion of embedded steel bars from chloride ion and carbon dioxide penetration. Even when using carbon fiber (CFRP) pipes instead of steel, their lower ductility compared to steel leads to fractures when bending pipes to connect them at right angles. Existing connection technologies have also been limited by low connector durability and complex installation processes.

This technology involves placing reinforcements on a reinforcement plate and inserting the vertical coupling parts, which rise higher than the reinforcements, into the vertical coupling grooves of a cover plate to assemble them in a gel state. The reinforcements are fitted into the grooves between the four protruding cover bodies. The installation process follows these steps: base plate installation, reinforcement placement, reinforcement positioning, cover coupling, heating, and epoxy lining. Applicable to concrete bridges in coastal or salt-damaged areas, underground structures, tunnel linings, and parking garage slabs requiring non-corrosive reinforcement, this method allows CFRP reinforcements—which would otherwise break if bent—to be connected at right angles without fracture, while also ensuring waterproofing at the joints via epoxy lining.

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Key Features:

• Thermoplastic CFRP reinforcement comprising a first CFRP reinforcement and a pair of second and third CFRP reinforcements disposed on its outer sides
• Thermosetting reinforcement part comprising a reinforcement plate on which the CFRP reinforcement is seated and a vertical coupling part protruding vertically from the outer side of the reinforcement
• Thermosetting cover part disposed on the other side of the CFRP reinforcement and coupled with the reinforcement part to seal the plurality of CFRP reinforcements
• Protruding parts of the second and third CFRP reinforcements that wrap around the first CFRP reinforcement, including an insertion member that fits into the coupling groove on the outer side of the first CFRP reinforcement

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This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport for research on simulation analysis and life-cycle economic analysis of rebar-alternative concrete structures.

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