Structural reinforcement member and method of utilizing the same to reinforce a product

摘要

A reinforcing grid (10) which advantageously includes fibers of both a first type (11) and a second type (12) is provided. The first type of fibers (11) have a strength sufficient to reinforce the hardenable structural material, such as concrete, after hardening. The first type of fibers (12) also have a higher resistance to degradation in the hardenable material than the second type of fibers. As such, the first type of fibers will continue to reinforce the hardened material in the event the fibers of the second type become corroded in the hardened material. Consequently, a less expensive type of fiber can be used as the second type of fiber and can corrode in the hardenable material without concern for the strength of the hardened structural product. According to one embodiment, the first type of fibers (11) comprises carbon fibers and the second type of fibers (12) comprises glass fibers.