An Analysis of Strength Enhancement Mechanisms in Heterogeneous Steels and GFRP-Concrete Composites

Résumé

This literature review examines the fundamental strengthening mechanisms governing two advanced material systems: heterostructured lightweight steels and Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP)-concrete composites. In lightweight steels, superior strength–ductility synergy is achieved through the deliberate engineering of microstructural heterogeneity, primarily via Hetero-Deformation Induced (HDI) strengthening, grain boundary refinement, and optimized hetero-unit size. These mechanisms enhance back stress, dislocation storage, and work hardening, enabling performance levels unattainable in homogenous alloys. Conversely, GFRP-concrete composites rely on macro-scale strategies to overcome the limitations of traditional steel reinforcement, focusing on improved bond behavior, innovative mechanical anchorage systems, and external confinement to enhance tensile load transfer, compressive strength, and durability. Comparative analysis reveals a unifying principle: strategic introduction of mechanical heterogeneity—internally within metals and interfacially in composite systems—serves as a powerful method for controlling deformation and suppressing brittle failure. This synthesis highlights a universal framework for designing high-performance materials, emphasizing that optimal composite behavior emerges from carefully engineered structural heterogeneity at critical physical scales.