Superior Durability
Long-term Performance of Composite Timbers Plastic Lumber
FRP composites have been successfully used over the past 50 years in a wide range of industrial applications. Proper selection of constituent materials, design, and fabrication process determines the durability of FRP composites. Although various constituents can be affected by environmental conditions, properly designed FRP composite structures using appropriate safety factors, protective additives, and configuration of selected materials, provide a high level of durability under very harsh environmental conditions.
An Example of Durability
Composite timbers have proven themselves over the long-term in extremely aggressive environments. In 1990, (an extruded FRP composite timber) was installed at Port Lavaca (half way between Houston and Corpus Christi on the Gulf). This region is known for its scorching sun, unbearable humidity, high winds and plenty of airborne salt/sand.
As you can see from these pictures taken in July, 2000, the massive structure has weathered the harsh, Gulf coast environment quite well.
