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This book was made possible by the exceptional support provided by the US Army
Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), Construction Engineering
Research Laboratory (CERL), and University of the Pacific School of Engineering
and Computer Science.
The authors, as listed in this book, took the time to prepare excellent manuscripts
focusing on various issues related to fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites for
infrastructure applications. The authors specifically focused on innovation, technology
implementation, and sustainability concepts. These manuscripts were rigorously
reviewed and refereed by scientists and engineers knowledgeable in the field
before inclusion in this book. An introductory chapter was prepared to provide an
overview on the main topics and to integrate technical issues covered in the book.
FRP composites are increasingly being considered for major infrastructure components
or systems; this is particularly true when there is a need to upgrade,
strengthen, or provide seismic retrofit to existing structures. The lightweight, high
strength, high stiffness, and corrosion resistant characteristics of FRPs have motivated
engineers and scientists to explore their application to complex infrastructure
systems. There are, however, crucial issues related to environment and sustainability:
theses concepts are covered in this book as well.
The editors are most grateful to the contributors, sponsor organizations, and the
many colleagues who were kind enough to assist in making this book possible. We
are particularly grateful to Dr. Ashok Kumar, Dr. Larry Stephenson, and Ms. Debbie
Lawrence (CERL) for providing general guidance and direction for the book and to
Ms. Deanna Thompson and Ms. Mickie Sundberg (University of the Pacific) for
assisting with managing organizing and editing the book manuscript.
Background information about the editors and contributors to this book is
provided in the following pages. |
