关键词：建筑材料；石材；木材；混凝土；钢材
摘 要：The construction industry has historically made use of four materials: stone, timber, concrete, and steel. In recent years, civil engineers have been seeking alternative materials to steel and concrete that may be less vulnerable to environmental damage. Rising public concern about traffic delays experienced during construction have increasingly influenced civil engineers to seek materials and methods that allow more rapid construction. At the same time, costs must be competitive with traditional materials because of reduced public sector resources to maintain transportation infrastructure. Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have emerged as an attractive potential alternative. Inspections of sign structures by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) have revealed the occurrence of premature corrosion of galvanized steel structural members. As a result, FDOT engineers are also seeking alternative materials that may be employed in these structures.