The use of polymer matrix composites (PMC) as load-carrying members in structure constructions largely improves the design flexibility for civil engineers. In such a design, not only structural mechanical considerations, but also architectural and building physical functions as well as energy supply units can be integrated into one FRP member, thus promoting a better system-oriented solution. This further allows high degree of prefabrication, rapid on-site installation, and makes low maintenance cost possible during structural service, therefore shortening the construction time and mitigating the higher materials costs. Experimental investigations and engineering practices will be introduced to illustrate such concepts, including the design and construction of a function-integrated glass fiber-reinforced PMC sandwich roof structure, an evaluation of long term performance of an all PMC composites pedestrian bridge, and research projects of thermo mechanical performance of PMC cellular panels integrated with water-cooling system to extend the fire endurance time from one hour to at least two hours. The developed modeling methodologies are not limited to structures made by PMC materials, but applicable also for those made by other materials.

Dr. Yu Bai received his Bachelor and MSc degrees in structural engineering from Tsinghua University, Beijing, China and his PhD from Structural Engineering Institute at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology EPFL, Switzerland in 2009. He is currently working as a lecturer in the Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Yu Bai’s previous research areas include static, dynamic and thermo mechanical responses of structures, with an emphasis on application of new materials and their function integration.