High-strength,
light-weight and durable materials are always desired by structure engineer.
Although CFRP (carbon
fiber reinforced-polymer) meets the demands, but its
anisotropy makes the connection of structural elements considerably weak which
is the main cause that make its high strength not be utilized fully. However,
Al (aluminum alloy) is now becoming the structural material in civil
engineering in recent years also due to its light-weight and anti-corrosion
properties. Although it has reasonable strength as normal steel, but its low
modulus makes it deformation control difficult that results in limiting its
application in large span
structures. The combinion of CFRP and Al, which can make
the high-strength being fully developed and make the connnection being easy
between elements, will be expected as a new type in
composite structures in
future. The state of the art of CFRP-Al composite in aero and space structures,
and aluminum structures in civil engineering are firstly reviewed in this
paper. CFRP-Al composite pipes, which can be used as elements in long-span
space truss structures, under axial compressive and flexual loading were
studied by tests. It is shown that CFRP can significantly increase the load
capacity and the stiffness of pure Al members. The results of the experimental
study have showed that this new composite will have potential benefits for the
structures in future.