R-TECH Materials has solidified its position as a leader in materials testing by becoming the only independent UK laboratory to offer accredited composite rebar testing in Europe thanks to its flexible scope of UKAS accreditation. With the recent introduction of a CE marking scheme for composite rebar, accredited independent testing is now a critical requirement. Leveraging its unique combination of composite and rebar testing facilities on a single site, R-TECH has developed a robust testing capability tailored to the growing demands of the construction sector.
Composite materials are increasingly vital in modern construction, providing innovative solutions to key industry challenges. Composite rebar, an advanced alternative to traditional steel reinforcement, is gaining traction due to its lightweight, high-strength, and corrosion-resistant properties. These advantages enable faster construction processes, reduce long-term maintenance, and allow use in harsh environments where traditional steel rebar would be unsuitable. Applications range from marine structures and bridge decks to parking structures and critical infrastructure projects.
Ensuring composite rebar meets the stringent performance requirements of modern construction projects requires precise and reliable mechanical testing. Over the past year, R-TECH Materials has developed a comprehensive suite of testing capabilities, meeting key industry standards such as ISO 10406-1, ASTM D8505, and ASTM D7205. With state-of-the-art tensile machines ranging from 10N to 1500kN, the facility can accommodate bar sizes up to 32mm in diameter, offering an unmatched testing capacity within a single laboratory.
Comprehensive Testing for Composite Rebar
R-TECH now provides a full range of accredited composite rebar testing services, including:
- Tensile Testing – Evaluating the strength and performance of rebar under tension.
- Bond Strength (Pull-Out Testing) – Assessing how effectively rebar adheres to concrete structures.
- Transverse Shear Testing – Measuring the material’s resistance to shear forces.
- Flexural Tensile Properties – Determining the material’s ability to withstand bending and flexural loads.
In addition to these core mechanical tests, R-TECH’s laboratory offers physical and thermal analysis, including cross-sectional property evaluation, coefficient of thermal expansion measurement, and volume fraction determination, further supporting the composite rebar industry with essential material insights.
Advancing Composites in Construction
Beyond composite rebar, R-TECH is at the forefront of testing materials used to strengthen critical infrastructure. With the increasing loads on motorway bridges due to rising traffic levels and the heavier weight of electric vehicles, many bridges require reinforcement to maintain safety and structural integrity. This reinforcement can be achieved by integrating composite rods or overwrapping carbon fibre prepreg onto concrete structures. R-TECH’s expertise extends to these advanced applications, ensuring the highest safety, quality, and reliability standards.
For construction professionals seeking a trusted partner in composite materials testing, R-TECH Materials delivers unparalleled expertise, cutting-edge facilities, and a commitment to supporting the industry’s drive toward innovation and sustainability.
Representatives from R-Tech Materials will be attending JEC World in Paris from 4th – 6th March and welcome the opportunity to meet with interested parties. For an appointment at the show, please email Geraint Havard, g.havard@r-techmaterials.com.