Numerical analysis of thermal stress-deformation in concrete surrounding FRP bars in hot region

► Cracks occur in concrete at FRP bar/concrete interface at ΔTcr = 20-25 °C. ► ΔTcr predicted by theoretical models are in good agreement with experimental results. ► The thermal load producing failure of concrete is ΔTsp = 35-45 °C for c/db = 0.8-1.5. ► c/db ⩾ 2 seems to be sufficient to reduce cracks in concrete under ΔT up to +60 °C.