Many steel-reinforced structures such as bridges, buildings and multi-storey car parks require upgrading because of corrosion attacks, changing service loads (through modification or new regulations) or because of seismic damage. In the past, structural strengthening was limited to traditional techniques such as underpinning or mantling. Lengthy installation time and the implications of adding extra loading, which could necessitate costly foundation strengthening work, meant that a viable alternative was needed.

Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRPs) technology initially developed for aerospace, ballistics and manufacturing was introduced to civil engineering applications from the late 1980s. Since then, carbon, aramid and glass fibres have proved a cost-effective strengthening solution which by passes the problems of steel plates and other construction causing little disruption during installation, they give superior strength and resistance to corrosion while being aesthetically unobtrusive. 

Composite Systems can be used to increase the strength of existing slabs when the current load capacity is exceeded. Strengthening applications include the addition of dense filing systems, computer floors, topping slab material or heavy machinery.  When these additional loads are placed on a floor slab, the increased positive and negative moment requirements often exceed the current slab capacity. The Floor Slab Strengthening System works in conjunction with the existing steel reinforcement to provide an increase  in flexural capacity.  Systems can be placed either on the top or underside of a slab, depending on the strengthening requirements. The composite can then be covered with traditional flooring or ceiling materials. 

Slab Strengthening Options 

Conventional repairs can drastically increase the profile height and add unsightly structural elements. Such elements may also interfere with existing or proposed conduits, wiring, HVAC ducts, etc.

Conventional Floor Slab Strengthening System

Floor Slab Strengthening System can provide the design requirements with minimal profile increase to the existing structure.

- Build or Design-Build
- Cost-effective
- Easy to install 
- No Facility shutdown required