OasisLMS

This webinar is jointly sponsored by NEx: An ACI Center of Excellence for Nonmetallic Building Materials and the American Concrete Institute (ACI).

This webinar presents the key findings from an experimental research programme investigating the performance of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) piles under different loading conditions. Using geotechnical centrifuge testing, the project evaluated pile response, load-transfer mechanisms, deformation, strain distribution, and soil–pile interaction at prototype stress levels. The presentation will highlight the testing methodology, instrumentation, data interpretation procedures, and the principal behavioural trends observed across the loading cases. The performance of GFRP piles will be directly compared with that of conventional steel piles to identify similarities, differences, and potential design implications. The webinar will also discuss the practical relevance of GFRP piles for durable foundation systems, particularly in aggressive environments, and will outline the remaining research needs required to support broader engineering implementation.

1. Explain the motivation for using GFRP piles and the principal engineering questions addressed by the research programme.
2. Describe the geotechnical centrifuge testing methodology, instrumentation, and data-analysis procedures used to evaluate GFRP pile performance.
3. Interpret the load–displacement response, strain distribution, bending response, and soil–pile interaction observed under different loading conditions.
4. Compare the behaviour of GFRP and conventional steel piles and identify the potential implications for pile design, durability, and future implementation.

Study the materials included in this module. Then, complete and pass the corresponding 10-question quiz with a score of 80% or higher to receive a certificate for 0.1 CEU (1.0 PDH).
Continuing Education Credit: 0.1 CEU (1.0 PDH)
Approved by AIA (and ICC
Access Period: 30 days