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Dextra Joins International Institute for FRP in Construction (IIFC) as Patron Member

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn

 

Dextra is pleased to announce its patron membership with the International Institute for FRP in Construction (IIFC), a globally recognized organization dedicated to the advancement of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites in the construction industry. This partnership underscores Dextra’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the development of next-generation structural reinforcement solutions.

What is IIFC and How It Supports the Industry

The International Institute for FRP in Construction (IIFC) is a leading global organization that promotes the use of FRP composites for civil infrastructure. Through a combination of research initiatives, educational programs, and industry collaborations, IIFC plays a pivotal role in driving the adoption of FRP solutions. Its key activities include:

  • Facilitating Knowledge Sharing: IIFC organizes conferences, workshops, and symposiums where researchers, engineers, and industry professionals exchange the latest findings and best practices.
  • Developing Standards and Guidelines: By working closely with standard-setting bodies, IIFC helps ensure that FRP technologies meet rigorous performance and safety requirements, paving the way for broader industry acceptance.
  • Encouraging Collaborative Research: IIFC fosters partnerships between academia and industry to push the boundaries of FRP innovation, focusing on both fundamental research and applied engineering solutions.

By offering a platform where experts can collaborate, IIFC contributes significantly to the advancement and standardization of FRP technologies, ultimately benefiting the construction industry and society at large.

Why FRP Matters in Modern Construction

As the industry moves toward more sustainable and durable infrastructure solutions, FRP composites have emerged as a game-changing material. Offering superior corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratios, and extended service life compared to traditional steel reinforcements, FRP is being increasingly adopted in critical construction applications worldwide.

With growing concerns about the environmental impact and longevity of reinforced concrete structures, FRP presents a solution that significantly reduces maintenance costs and enhances resilience in harsh environments, such as marine, transportation, and industrial infrastructure.

Dextra’s Commitment to FRP Innovation

Dextra has long been at the forefront of developing advanced reinforcement solutions, including our Durabar+ GFRP Rebar, which recently earned ICC-ES certification for compliance with international building standards. By joining IIFC as a Patron Member, Dextra strengthens its role in shaping the future of FRP applications through research collaboration, knowledge sharing, and contribution to industry’s best practices.

Through this partnership, Dextra will actively engage with leading researchers, engineers, and policymakers to support the widespread adoption of FRP materials in construction projects worldwide.

What This Means for the Future

By joining forces with IIFC, Dextra continues to lead the way in providing high-performance reinforcement solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern construction. Our participation will drive:

✅ Greater industry awareness of FRP’s advantages and applications
✅ Collaborative research initiatives to further validate FRP solutions
✅ Stronger regulatory and standardization efforts for FRP in structural applications
✅ A sustainable future with durable, corrosion-resistant construction materials

Looking Ahead

At Dextra, we are excited to embark on this journey with IIFC and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the construction industry. As FRP adoption continues to grow, we remain committed to delivering high-quality reinforcement solutions that support resilient and environmentally responsible infrastructure.

For more information about IIFC and its mission, visit: www.iifc.org

Stay connected with Dextra for more updates on our innovations in FRP technology!

Durabar+ GFRP Rebar Achieves ICC-ES AC521 Certification

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn

Dextra is pleased to announce that Durabar+ GFRP rebar has successfully achieved ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) confirmation, demonstrating compliance with the 2024, 2021, and 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC).

This confirmation, detailed in ICC-ES evaluation report ESR-5501, provides essential guidance to code officials, engineers, and contractors for approving the use of Durabar+ in accordance with these standards. The evaluation follows the Acceptance Criteria for Fiber-reinforced Polymer (FRP) Bars and Meshes for Internal Reinforcement of Non-structural Concrete Members (AC521).

What It Means for the Construction Industry

✅ Code Compliance: With this recognition, Durabar+ is officially verified for use in building and residential construction under major international codes.


✅ Corrosion Resistance: As a non-metallic reinforcement, Durabar+ is ideal for applications where traditional steel rebar faces durability challenges, such as in coastal, marine, and chemically aggressive environments.


✅ Lightweight & High Strength: Offering exceptional tensile strength with a lighter weight than steel, Durabar+ enhances constructability and reduces handling costs.

Why is the ICC-ES AC521 Certification Important?

The AC521 certification is a significant recognition that validates the quality, safety, and compliance of FRP bars and meshes in construction. It ensures that these materials meet strict evaluation criteria, allowing them to be confidently used in projects that require durable, non-corrosive reinforcement.

 

Key Benefits for Our Customers

By eliminating corrosion concerns and reducing maintenance costs, Durabar+ GFRP rebar aligns with the industry’s push toward sustainable, long-lasting infrastructure solutions. This ICC-ES evaluation further cements its position as a reliable and innovative alternative to conventional steel reinforcement.


✅ Verified Performance – ICC-ES certification confirms that the mechanical properties of our product align with the data in our Product Data Sheet (PDS).
✅ Regulatory Compliance – Our FRP rebar meets ACI 440.1R design standards, providing engineers with confidence in their calculations.
✅ Safety & Quality Assurance – Independently tested to meet industry regulations, ensuring durability and reliability.
✅ Cost Efficiency – Standardized, certified materials simplify project specifications, leading to streamlined procurement and reduced risks.

 

Who Should Be Interested?

This certification is highly relevant for:
🏗 Construction and Infrastructure Professionals – Ensuring project compliance with certified, high-performance reinforcement.
📐 Structural Engineers & Designers – Using Durabar+ confidently in calculations and structural designs.
🏛 Regulatory Authorities & Code Enforcers – Supporting the industry’s shift towards standardization and advanced materials.

 

Building the Future with Certified Innovation

Durabar+ is our advanced GFRP rebar solution, engineered with ISO polyester resin and E-CR glass fibres for superior performance in reinforced concrete applications. Designed to withstand harsh environments, Durabar+ offers exceptional corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, and long-term durability, making it an ideal alternative to traditional steel reinforcement in infrastructure and marine projects.

 

With ICC-ES AC521 certification, Durabar+ GFRP Rebar is set to drive the adoption of sustainable, corrosion-resistant reinforcement in modern construction.

Interested in integrating Durabar+ into your next project? Contact us today to learn more!

Contact us

Sustainability of Rebar Couplers: Greener Future for Construction

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn

In the construction industry, sustainability is becoming an increasingly critical consideration. One area where significant environmental benefits can be achieved is in the use of rebar couplers instead of traditional overlapping methods. This article explores the sustainability of rebar couplers, highlighting their impact on CO2 emissions, cost savings, waste reduction, and transportation efficiency.

 

Reducing CO2 Emissions

Traditional overlapping methods require additional lengths of rebar to create the necessary overlap, leading to increased material usage and higher CO2 emissions. In contrast, rebar couplers eliminate the need for overlapping, directly reducing the amount of rebar required. Studies have shown that using rebar couplers can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 90% per connection compared to traditional overlap methods. This reduction is achieved through decreased material production and less energy-intensive manufacturing processes.

 

Cost Savings in Raw Material

The use of rebar couplers translates to significant cost savings in raw materials. By eliminating the overlap, contractors can purchase less rebar, which not only reduces costs but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with steel production. Research indicates that the adoption of rebar couplers can lead to a reduction in purchased rebar usage by up to 17.95% (Optimization of Rebar Usage and Sustainability Based on Special-Length Priority: A Case Study of Mechanical Couplers in Diaphragm Walls (mdpi.com). This decrease in material demand contributes to lower overall project costs and supports more sustainable construction practices.

Waste Reduction

One of the key advantages of rebar couplers is their ability to reduce waste. Traditional overlapping methods often result in excess rebar that must be cut and discarded, contributing to construction waste. Rebar couplers, on the other hand, allow for precise connections without the need for cutting, thereby minimizing waste. This approach not only conserves resources but also reduces the environmental footprint of construction projects.

 

Efficient Transportation

Transportation of rebar is another area where rebar couplers offer sustainability benefits. With traditional overlapping methods, the increased volume of rebar required leads to more frequent and larger shipments, increasing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Rebar couplers reduce the overall volume of rebar needed, leading to fewer shipments and lower transportation-related emissions. This efficiency in logistics further enhances the sustainability of construction projects.

 

Transparency and Accountability with Dextra’s EPDs

Dextra has taken significant steps towards sustainability by introducing Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for our rebar couplers. EPDs provide transparent and verified information about the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle. By offering EPDs for our rebar couplers, Dextra demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability in building a more sustainable future.

These EPDs cover the full range of Dextra’s rebar couplers, including Bartec®, Griptec®, and Rolltec®, and detail the environmental performance of these products from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. This level of transparency allows contractors to make informed decisions based on reliable data, ensuring that their choice of rebar couplers aligns with their sustainability goals.

 

Why Contractors Must Make the Switch

For contractors, the decision to switch from traditional overlapping methods to rebar couplers should be driven by both structural and environmental considerations. Rebar couplers not only provide a reliable and robust connection but also offer significant sustainability advantages.

 

In conclusion, the use of rebar couplers presents a compelling case for contractors seeking to enhance the sustainability of their construction projects. By reducing CO2 emissions, cutting costs, minimizing waste, and improving transportation efficiency, rebar couplers offer a greener and more cost-effective alternative to traditional overlapping methods. Making the switch not only supports environmental goals but also contributes to the long-term viability and success of construction projects.

Innovating Sustainable Construction: GFRP Rebar in Sea Sand and Seawater Concrete

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn

In today’s world, where sustainability is crucial, Dextra is at the forefront of innovative construction solutions. By promoting the use of sea sand and seawater in concrete, Dextra not only addresses resource scarcity but also enhances the durability and resilience of structures in marine environments. However, the real breakthrough lies in the use of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebar, which is essential for creating reinforced concrete by solving the corrosion issue of the sea salts.

The Need for Sustainable Solutions

The construction and building industry are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 37% of global emissions. As water-stressed regions face increasing challenges, the use of seawater and sea sand in concrete presents a viable alternative to traditional materials. This shift not only reduces the environmental footprint of construction projects but also mitigates the rising costs associated with freshwater and river sand.

The Challenge of Reinforced Concrete in marine applications

While the integration of sea sand and seawater into concrete is a significant advancement, the true challenge is in reinforcing this concrete effectively. Traditional steel reinforcement is prone to corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments, which can lead to structural failures over time. GFRP rebar emerges as the keystone of this innovation, offering a sustainable and durable solution that outperforms conventional materials.

Cost-Effectiveness and Lifecycle Benefits

Dextra’s GFRP rebar not only matches the initial construction costs of traditional methods but also provides substantial lifecycle savings. Its resistance to corrosion means lower maintenance costs and longer service life, making it a more economical choice in the long run. This is particularly important in coastal regions where the harsh environment can significantly shorten the lifespan of traditional reinforced concrete.

The key ingredient in seawater concrete is the mineral admixture (granulated blast furnace slag, fly ash, or silica fume), which, when combined with lime and seawater, undergoes a reaction to create a durable and strong material. Some chemical admixtures such as Superplasticizers can also be added to enhance the concrete properties.

Dextra has emerged as the preferred partner to provide the needed GFRP reinforcement rebars of the sea sand and seawater concrete for the most important stakeholders who want to keep their advance in this subject. Additionally, Dextra ensures the highest product standards through rigorous in-house laboratory testing and a comprehensive traceability system, which is why the Hong Kong Polytechnic University has entrusted Dextra with their GFRP rebar requirements.

(Graph: Life cycle cost analysis of structural concrete using seawater, recycled concrete aggregate, and GFRP reinforcement

Younis, Ebead, Judd – Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University – Published in “Construction and Building Materials” (2018))

(Diagram: Life cycle cost analysis of structural concrete using seawater, recycled concrete aggregate, and GFRP reinforcement

Younis, Ebead, Judd – Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University – Published in “Construction and Building Materials” (2018))

SSSW-Picture-9

ACI Committee 243, chaired by Antonio Nanni, focuses on developing guidelines for concrete made with brackish, saline, and brine water, as well as sea aggregates. This committee aims to enhance sustainability in construction by promoting the use of alternative materials that conserve fresh water and natural aggregates.

Antonio Nanni, the immediate past president of the American Concrete Institute (ACI), and chair of ACI committee 243, emphasizes the importance of GFRP in modern infrastructure. He states, “The adoption of GFRP rebars is not just a trend, it’s a necessary evolution in our approach to sustainable construction. Composite reinforcement offers significant advantages over traditional black steel, particularly in environments where corrosion is a concern. GFRP can make several applications of reinforced concrete more sustainable in terms of durability, cost and environmental impact.”

Nanni notes, “I commend Dextra’s commitment to quality and innovation in GFRP manufacturing. Their products meet rigorous performance standards and provide a lightweight solution that enhances structural efficiency.” With a performance-to-weight ratio up to three times that of steel, Dextra’s GFRP rebars are ideal for projects requiring both strength and sustainability.

ANTONIO NANNI

Professor, Department of Civil- and Architectural Engineering

University of Miami, United States. 

Pierre Hofmann

General Manager – GEOTEC Product Line

Dextra Group

Dextra’s commitment to sustainability is further exemplified by Pierre Hofmann’s appointment to the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Committee 243 on Seawater Concrete.

His expertise will contribute to developing guidelines and standards that promote the use of seawater concrete in construction projects worldwide.

SSSW-Picture-6-2

(Picture: Coastal Enhancement Works in Hong Kong)

Dextra Group is not just a participant in the construction industry, it is a leader in sustainable practices. By embracing innovative materials like GFRP Rebar, sea sand and seawater concrete, Dextra is paving the way for a more sustainable future in construction. As research continues and new projects emerge, Dextra remains dedicated to finding better solutions that benefit both the environment and the industry.

SSSW Picture-8

FibreCraft Insights Video: Episode 3.2 Now Launched

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn
Dextra is excited to announce the launch of its new FibreCraft Insights video series, featuring Pierre Hofmann, General Manager of Geotec, alongside Bhargav Jog, Business Development Manager. This series aims to provide valuable insights into Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) and its applications.
  • In the first episode, “GFRP Demystified,” viewers are introduced to the basics and benefits of GFRP materials. This episode lays a solid foundation for understanding the material’s potential and how it can be utilized in various industries.
  • The second episode, “Unlocking the Technical Marvel,” delves into the key mechanical properties of GFRP. Pierre Hofmann and Bhargav Jog explore the technical aspects that make GFRP a remarkable material for innovative engineering solutions.
  • The third episode, “GFRP in Action“, discusses the applications of GFRP products for tunnelling projects, flatwork applications, and active and passive anchoring.
Stay tuned for more episodes of FibreCraft Insights, which will continue to uncover the advantages and applications of GFRP. You can watch the series on our website, YouTube channel, and LinkedIn.
Watch on YouTube
Learn more about our GFRP solutions

Unveiling Durabar Carpet – The Future of Construction Versatility

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn

Dextra is thrilled to announce the launch of the Durabar Carpet, the latest in our line of cutting-edge construction solutions. Crafted from our patented Durabar GFRP rebar, this innovative product is set to revolutionize the construction industry with its unmatched versatility and efficiency.

A New Era in Construction

The Durabar Carpet stands out not only for its robust design but also for its adaptability across various construction projects.

The real game-changer, however, lies in its ability to be effortlessly cut in any direction, allowing for precise adjustments and minimizing material waste. This feature is particularly beneficial in complex projects where customization is key.

Key Features:

  • Bar Diameter: Available in sizes ranging from Ø 6mm to Ø 16mm.
  • Standard Length: 5.8 meters, perfect for most applications.
  • Custom Lengths: Tailor the product to your needs with lengths available from 2 meters to 5.8 meters.
  • Flexible Spacing: Select spacing from 100mm to 600mm, offering maximum design freedom.

Whether you’re working on a large-scale infrastructure project or a bespoke architectural design, the Durabar Carpet offers the flexibility and performance you need.

Why Choose Durabar Carpet?

The advantages of using Durabar Carpet in construction projects are clear. Not only does it simplify logistics and reduce waste, but it also provides engineers and builders with the freedom to customize their approach to reinforcement. The product’s ability to adapt to various requirements makes it an indispensable tool in modern construction.

As the construction industry continues to evolve, Dextra remains at the forefront, delivering innovative solutions that address the needs of today’s builders. The Durabar Carpet is more than just a product – it’s a testament to Dextra’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in construction.

Experience the future of construction with Durabar Carpet.

For more information, learn more about Durabar or contact us today.

Download Durabar brochure

Dextra and Arkema Forge Partnership to Revolutionize Composite Solutions

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn

Arkema, a titan in specialty materials with a robust focus on sustainable innovations, has joined forces with Dextra Group, a pioneer in the construction industry known for its cutting-edge Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) solutions, to unleash groundbreaking composite fiber solutions. This collaboration is set to redefine industry standards, leveraging Arkema’s acclaimed Elium thermoplastic resin and Dextra’s innovative FRP rebar to deliver unique, high-performance materials focused on sustainability and efficiency in construction.

The partnership marks a visionary step towards the future of construction materials, positioning both Arkema and Dextra Group at the forefront of technological acceleration in the composites sector. Through this initiative, they aim to drive the adoption of composite material in construction, emphasizing innovative solutions, sustainability, and the superior qualities of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer, thus setting a new benchmark for quality and innovation in the industry.

Dextra’s innovative FRP rebar, combined with Arkema’s Elium® resin, presented at JEC World 2024, encapsulates the essence of this partnership, highlighting Dextra’s leadership in GFRP innovation for the construction industry.

Overview of Arkema and Dextra Group’s Collaboration

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Arkema, a global leader in specialty chemicals, has joined forces with Dextra Group, a trailblazer in the construction industry. This partnership is set to revolutionize the construction sector with the introduction of innovative composite solutions. Below are the key aspects of this collaboration:

  • Arkema’s Contribution:
    • Leveraging its expertise in specialty materials, Arkema brings to the table its pioneering Elium® thermoplastic resin, known for its exceptional performance in enhancing the strength and durability of composites.
  • Dextra Group’s Role:
    • Operating in over 55 countries, Dextra Group’s expertise in engineered steel and fibre-reinforced polymer construction products sets a solid foundation for this collaboration. The focus on sustainability is evident through Dextra’s introduction of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for their products, showcasing a shared vision for a greener future.

This collaboration not only underscores the commitment of both organizations to pioneering sustainable, high-performance materials but also sets Dextra apart as a leader in GFRP innovation within the construction sector.

Arkema’s Elium Thermoplastic Resin and Dextra’s FRP Rebars

At the heart of the collaboration between Arkema and Dextra Group lies the integration of Arkema’s Elium® thermoplastic resin with Dextra’s innovative FRP rebars, setting a new standard in the construction industry for composite fiber solutions. This partnership leverages the unique properties of Elium® resin, including:

  • Hot Bending on Site: Elium® resin allows for the hot bending of FRP rebars directly on construction sites, offering unparalleled flexibility and cost-efficiency. This feature is a game-changer, simplifying logistics and enabling more complex architectural designs.
  • Sustainable and High Performance: This new generation of resin can be made with up to 92% recycled material. At the end of the products lifetime (120+ Years), it can be broken down to separate the resin and fiber elements. This allows the resin to be recycled and reused while the fiber can be upcycled to be used as reinforcement in asphalt and concrete.

Arkema’s collaboration with Dextra to develop bendable reinforcements using Elium® resin further underscores the innovative spirit of this partnership. This endeavor not only makes reinforcements more flexible but also enhances their resistance properties, longevity, and aesthetic appeal, mirroring natural stone.

Through this collaboration, Dextra Group is positioned as a leader in GFRP innovation, differentiating itself from other producers by harnessing the unique benefits of Arkema’s Elium® resin and its unique manufacturing process.

 

Tai Po Railway Pier – Reconstruction of Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station

Posted on by Kansuda Visesthanakorn
 

Tai Po Railway Pier – Reconstruction of Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station, Hong Kong

 

In the dynamic coastal landscape of Tai Po Kau, New Territories, Hong Kong, infrastructure projects demand robust and resilient solutions. One such endeavor, the Reconstruction of Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station project, required innovative materials to withstand the unique challenges posed by its environment. Dextra was chosen to provide approximately 1,000 meters of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebar for the slab of the Tai Po Railway Pier, showcasing the efficacy of advanced composite materials in marine construction.

The Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station project aimed to revitalize the existing infrastructure, enhancing its resilience against tidal forces, corrosion, and environmental degradation. Recognizing the limitations of traditional steel reinforcement in marine environments, the project sought alternatives that could offer superior durability and longevity. Dextra’s GFRP rebar emerged as the ideal solution, offering exceptional resistance to corrosion, rust, and chemical degradation commonly associated with saltwater exposure.

GFRP rebar, composed of high-strength glass fibers embedded in a polymer matrix, delivers mechanical properties comparable to steel but with added benefits. Notably, GFRP rebar exhibits significantly lower thermal conductivity, reducing the risk of thermal bridging and enhancing structural integrity in extreme temperature variations. Furthermore, its non-magnetic properties eliminate electromagnetic interference, making it suitable for sensitive applications such as tide gauge stations.

The application of GFRP rebar within the Tai Po Kau Tide Gauge Station project encompassed both straight and bent bars, catering to the diverse structural requirements of the public pier. Dextra’s expertise in custom fabrication ensured precise bending and shaping of the rebar to fit the intricate geometries of the pier structure, facilitating seamless integration and minimizing construction complexities.