TG ID
TG3
Name
FRP in Extreme Settings
Subject
TG3 addresses the unique challenges of using Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) materials in environments characterized by extreme service conditions- such as high wind speeds, aggressive saltwater exposure, fire, and severe weather fluctuations. The group focuses on the design, development, and deployment of FRP-based infrastructure capable of delivering long-term durability and performance in such harsh settings. Applications include offshore wind energy systems and other critical infrastructure where traditional materials may fail due to corrosion or fatigue. Leveraging the inherent benefits of FRP, such as corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio, and low maintenance. TG3 brings together academic and industry partners to advance resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that ensure structural integrity and promote the longevity of essential infrastructure in extreme environments.
Overview
The Task Group on Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) in Extreme Settings focuses on the development and application of FRP structures designed to withstand extreme service conditions, such as high wind speeds, corrosive saltwater, and severe weather. This group aims to address the challenges of designing durable and sustainable materials for large-scale infrastructure exposed to such harsh environments, including (but not limited to) FRP structures used in offshore wind energy systems. By advancing the use of FRP materials, the group seeks to enhance the longevity and performance of critical components in these demanding settings. FRP offers several advantages, such as corrosion resistance, lightweight construction, and a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it particularly suitable for such environments. Through research and collaboration, the group promotes the development of resilient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions that contribute to the sustainable growth of infrastructure in extreme conditions.
This Task Group brings together experts from academia, industry, and practice to explore the potential of FRP systems in extreme environments. The focus is on overcoming the challenges of designing, manufacturing, and deploying FRP structures in harsh conditions such as high wind speeds, corrosive saltwater, fire, and extreme weather. Key areas of research include material durability, performance under environmental stress, innovative manufacturing techniques, and the optimization of FRP for large-scale infrastructure projects. The group aims to foster collaborative research efforts, identify funding opportunities, and support the development of industry-driven solutions. It will also work to disseminate knowledge and best practices through conferences, webinars, and journal publications. A shared governance model ensures active participation and contributions from all members throughout the group’s initiatives, helping to drive advancements in FRP technology for applications in extreme settings.
Objectives
The TG 3 aim to achieve the following:
- Objective 1: Identify critical research needs, knowledge gaps, and technical challenges related to the use of FRP systems in extreme environments.
- Objective 2: Develop a comprehensive database of national and international funding opportunities that align with the group’s goals of advancing FRP technology for extreme conditions.
- Objective 3: Foster a collaborative network that promotes interdisciplinary research and supports the submission of high-quality research proposals to address the challenges of FRP applications in demanding environments.
- Objective 4: Disseminate research findings, innovations, and best practices through conferences, webinars, and journal publications to raise awareness and influence the adoption of FRP solutions in extreme conditions.
- Objective 5: Promote the development of guidelines and standards for the design, manufacturing, and deployment of FRP structures in harsh settings, ensuring safety, durability, and sustainability.
Program/Tasks and Timetable
The Task Group 3 activities will follow a structured timeline to ensure consistent progress and deliverables:
- State-of-the-Art Report or Paper: Development and publication will be completed within a 2-year timeline.
- Funding Database and Collaboration Platform: These resources will be established within 6 months of TG approval by IIFC.
- Webinars: At least one webinar featuring invited speakers will be organized every 3 months to share insights, showcase progress, and engage with the wider community.
- Special Sessions at Conferences: Dedicated sessions showcasing the TG’s work will be planned every 2 years at major conferences such as the CICE.
- Newsletter Updates: Quarterly updates summarizing the TG’s progress and key achievements will be published in the IIFC newsletter to keep members informed and engaged.
Expected deliverables
The following deliverables are expected:
- Published peer-reviewed state-of-the-art report or journal paper.
- A functional and regularly updated funding opportunities database.
- A live, operational online platform for collaboration.
- Organized and executed quarterly webinars.
- Presented sessions or materials at IIFC conferences.
- Published annual updates in IIFC newsletter summarizing TG progress.
Team
Chair: Dr.-Ing. Dr. Aamir Dean (a.dean@isd.uni-hannover.de), Group Leader of Composite Materials, Leibniz University Hannover, Germany.
Co-Chairs: Dr. Daniel Carlos Taissum Cardoso (dctcardoso@puc-rio.br), Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Dr. Anilkumar P M Nair, Group Leader of Composite Structures (a.nair@isd.uni-hannover.de), Leibniz University Hannover, Germany.
