Concepts for Hybrid FRP Bridge Deck Systems

by Pavan A. Bakeri, Massachusetts Inst of Technology, United States,
S. Shyam Sunder, Massachusetts Inst of Technology, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Serviceability and Durability of Construction Materials

Abstract:

This paper presents selected structural concepts for modular bridge deck systems taking into account the limitations imposed by fabrication processes for polymer matrix composites. An idealized structural model is developed for the analysis of such composite structures when subjected to traffic loads. This model uses averaged engineering constants for the laminate, while the designs assume special ply stacking sequences to achieve optimum structural performance. A consequence of such stacking sequences is to reduce the anisotropy of the laminate. A finite element analysis is performed to evaluate the mechanical performance of the proposed deck systems. As is characteristic of fiber-reinforced plastics, the design of the deck systems is governed by the deflection limit state rather than the strength limit state which is typical for conventional structural materials. A hybrid FRP/concrete system is found to be promising particularly from the viewpoint of cost. The objective of the concrete in the hybrid concept is to resist the compressive force. However, in order to keep the use of FRP at a minimum it is necessary to subject parts of the concrete to tensile forces. The use of fiber-reinforced concrete as opposed to plain reinforced concrete is recommended under these conditions.

Subject Headings: Bridge decks | Fiber reinforced polymer | Fiber reinforced concrete | Concrete bridges | Synthetic materials | Hybrid methods | Reinforced concrete

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