This webinar is jointly sponsored by NEx: An ACI Center of Excellence for Nonmetallic Building Materials and the American Concrete Institute (ACI).
Non-metallic piles, including fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) and structurally reinforced thermoplastic piles, are becoming increasingly common in marine and transportation infrastructure. These materials offer significant advantages over traditional steel, concrete, and timber piles, including corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratios, and excellent energy absorption. However, many engineers and owners remain unfamiliar with their design, installation, and performance characteristics. This webinar presents a practical overview of current design methodologies for non-metallic piles. Topics include material types, geotechnical and structural design considerations, installation and testing methods, and real-world applications such as fender systems, dolphins, and guide walls. The session will focus on how existing pile design practices can be applied to non-metallic materials, helping engineers and decision-makers confidently evaluate and implement these solutions.