International Workshop on Historical Preservation of Structures with Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites; June 10-11, 2004; Leece Italy

Missouri University Of Science And Technology, Rolla MO

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract This International Workshop on "Historical preservation of structures with FRP composites" to be held in Lecce, Italy, on June 10-11, 2004, following the First International Conference on Innovative Materials and Technology for Construction and Restoration (IMTCR-04). In the last two decades, advanced composites (fiber-reinforced polymer or FRP) have gained considerable worldwide interest and growing acceptance in the construction industry. The historical preservation of structures is one of the most appealing applications of FRP composites in the construction field. However, this application presents some critical issues still not sufficiently investigated: long-term durability of FRP-repaired structures; compatibility of the FRP system with the parent material; minimal invasiveness and reversibility of the upgrade; optimal material selection. All the aforementioned issues, of paramount importance for intervention on structures of architectural/historical interest, are also relevant when dealing with any other category of structure, when looking at long-term performance and global cost-benefit balance. Each of these issues requires an interdisciplinary effort between researchers with material-oriented and structural-oriented backgrounds and experts of architectural restoration. The primary objectives of the workshop are to review the advances in research on the topic of the workshop; provide to researchers with material-oriented and structural-oriented backgrounds and to experts of architectural restoration the opportunity to interact and develop a cooperation network; identify the gaps of knowledge on the sub-topics of the workshop (long-term durability, compatibility, minimal invasiveness and reversibility, and optimal material selection); identify major barriers to the effective utilization of advanced composites for historical preservation; renew the human network of experts in the field and integrate new entrants; prioritize and document the needs for effective research policies and programs.