The 2023 project of NEXCEL, titled “Fire endurance and creep resistance improvement for application of GFRP rebars”, has achieved a major breakthrough in practical implementation. This collaborative research project brings together the expertise of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Zhongfu Carbon Core Cable Techonology, Huachang Polymer, and Taishan Fiberglass. A key outcome of the project, the development of a high-performance glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bar, has been successfully applied in a coastal industrial construction project in Lianyungang. This marks a pivotal advancement in the innovation and application of next generation building materials.

The GFRP bars were utilized in two demonstration projects including the renovation of a wind turbine blade production facility and the construction of new fire pump room, both located within Zhongfu Carbon Core. The company was responsible for the production and implementation of the GFRP bars, while Huachang Polymer developed the high-temperature resistant vinyl ester resin. Taishan Fiberglass supplied the glass fibers. Located in a coastal environment characterized by high humidity and intense salt spray, the project presented demanding conditions for corrosion resistance. Additionally, the fire pump room required reinforcements with excellent fire resistance property. Such complex requirements are difficult to be satisfied by steel bars. Through comprehensive research and rigorous experimental validation, the project team successfully developed GFRP bars with enhanced fire resistance and creep performance, effectively addressing the technical challenges encountered. 

In total, 12000 meters of high-performance GFRP bars were used across the two demonstration projects. At elevated temperatures of up to 400°C, the bars retained 68% of their original tensile strength, and their creep rupture strength exceeded 45% of the ultimate tensile strength. Over the full lifecycle of the structure, the adoption of GFRP reinforcement is projected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 30% and lower construction costs by 10% compared to conventional steel reinforcement. This achievement not only underscores the dual advantages of GFRP bars in terms of sustainability and economic performance, but also demonstrates the feasibility and superiority of high-performance GFRP bars as a viable alternative to traditional steel reinforcement, offering a valuable practical example and technical reference for future similar engineering applications.