Market researchers at Lucintel report that pent-up demand for composites in construction applications in China is producing double-digit growth there, while in North America, construction applications are expected to expand at a rate of about 5% a year through 2013. In Europe, growth will average over 6% in the same period. Commercial and industrial construction applications are keeping the overall demand for composites from slumping in Europe and the USA, relates Lucintel.
Fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) Pultruded fiberglass composites are used in a wide range of applications in construction because of the benefits they provide over traditional building materials. Primary benefits include reduced weight, requiring less supporting structure, and excellent resistance to corrosion and rot, which can significantly reduce the durability of structures built with wood and steel.
Less maintenance and repairs mean reduced life cycle costs. Lighter materials also facilitate handling during assembly, reducing installation costs as well as transportation costs. Composites also offer greater design freedom, enabling the creation of complex shapes.