This paper reviews the contents of Concrete Society Technical Report 55 on strengthening concrete structures using externally bonded fibre composite materials. The paper describes the background, nature and mechanics of producing the Report. Set in the context of limit state philosophy, the Report provides design guidance on flexural strengthening of beams and slabs, shear strengthening of beams and columns, and flexural and compressive strengthening of columns. These procedures are briefly explained. Other aspects of the Report, which deal with material types and properties, field applications, workmanship and installation, and long-term monitoring, are summarised. Finally, a worked example of a beam strengthened with bonded FRP reinforcement is presented in order to illustrate the design procedure for flexural strengthening, this representing the majority of applications.
