V-ROD Fiberglass Rebar

For cutting, use a diamond blade cut-off or chop saw. A grinder or hacksaw could also be used in the field if a cut-off saw is not available. Shearing of GFRP bars, as used by steel fabricators, must be avoided as it will split or damage the fibers. Splicing GFRP is permitted and can be estimated using the design codes. Similar to steel rebars, a rough rule of thumb of 60x the bar diameter might be applicable.

Full-scale slab fire tests with VROD reinforcement were conducted at the National Research Council in accordance with ASTM E119. The slabs underwent a 3-hour fire rating, with a minimum cover of 40 mm and a 200 mm unexposed anchor zone at the ends. Additionally, GFRP is included in the CSA S413 parking garage code. The CSA S806 provides guidance on how to detail GFRP bars to achieve the desired fire rating

GFRP bars have a superior corrosion resistance; thus, concrete cover can generally be reduced when using GFRP bars. Codes and standards determine the minimum concrete cover.

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The V‑ROD Poly products (Poly 46) are recommended for non-structural applications, as defined by the codes and standards. For instance, V‑ROD Poly in slab-on-grade reinforced for concrete shrinkage and temperature change provides a cost-effective alternative. The engineering department at V‑ROD can assist in identifying the feasibility of using one of the V‑ROD Poly lines based on the element geometry and applied loads.

Both materials have similar mechanical properties and are specified by the Canadian Specifications CSA S807. While both materials are highly durable and non-corrosive, the durability of V‑ROD Vinyl was determined to be superior to V‑ROD Poly.