Mechanical performance of inorganic polymer-based mortars with glass fibre reinforced polymer bars

Glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars have found a place in specific structural applications as concrete reinforcement thanks to certain advantages regarding chemical attack behaviour, corrosion resistance, non-conductive characteristics, high strength/weight ratio and production simplicity. However, the negative effect that elevated temperatures have on the mechanical performance of these bars constrains their spread adoption. In contrast, inorganic polymers (IP) are characterized by a low thermal conductivity, good mechanical performance and stability at elevated temperatures. The aim of the study is the preliminary evaluation of the mechanical interaction between an IP mortar made by alkali activated fayalite slag (FS) and the embedded GFRP bars used for reinforcement, defining the bearing capacity of the dual system under flexural loading.