The Design and Construction Considerations for PCCP Rehabilitation Using FRP Composites

Strengthening of Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP) using externally and internally applied fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) jackets has been successfully used since the early 1990's. FRP composites are high strength, non-corrosive and durable materials and can add considerable structural capacity which makes them very suitable for PCCP strengthening. However, there are key material, design, and construction issues specific to PCCP rehabilitation that lack consensus within the industry. They include conditioning of the pipe prior to FRP installation, minimum material durability requirements, FRP stress limits for design and the level to which it can be designed to work compositely with the existing pipe or as a stand alone liner. For example, the condition of the pipe inner concrete coating can significantly affect the installation process. Dehumidification, surface repairs and preparation are critical for achieving durable pipe rehabilitation. In addition, the method of providing a watertight end termination detail for the FRP liner is key to ensuring proper performance of the composite liner.