Feasibility of Class C FRP Load Transfer Devices for Highway Jointed Concrete Pavements

Larralde, J.; ,

Feasibility of Class C FRP Load Transfer Devices for Highway Jointed Concrete Pavements

by J. Larralde, Drexel Univ, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Serviceability and Durability of Construction Materials

Abstract:

The objective of this paper is to analyze the feasibility of using corrosion free fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) devices in lieu of steel tie bars in the longitudinal joints of highway concrete pavements. The FRP devices are designed to provide the same shear transfer capability as the currently used steel tie bars. FRP devices consisting of bars, channel and I-beam shapes are considered. It is found that in terms of cross sectional area, the amount required for FRP devices is greater than that for steel bars. This is due to the fact that the modulus of elasticity of the FRP is lower than that of steel. In terms of cost of materials, it is found that FRP devices are more expensive than steel tie bars. However, prevention of deterioration due to corrosion may extend the service life of the joints and therefore that of the pavement. More research is needed to accurately define the increase of service life when corrosion is prevented.

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