Design and Field Evaluation of Hybrid FRP/Reinforced Concrete Superstructure System
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 14, Issue 5
Abstract
Fiber-reinforced polymers offer several advantages over conventional construction materials but are also faced with several challenges. These include increased first cost, relatively low stiffness, and a lack of field experience. To address these challenges and to advance the state of the art, a hybrid fiber reinforced polymer/reinforced concrete bridge was designed and constructed in Texas. The bridge design and field evaluation are unique in several respects. Design considerations, the bid process, and the results of intermittent live load evaluations that have been conducted over a period of approximately 2 years are presented. Recommendations for the design of future similar bridges are provided.
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Acknowledgments
The original design concept was developed through a research grant from TxDOT and the bridge was constructed with Innovative Bridge Research and Construction funds from the Federal Highway Administration. Their support is appreciated. Molded Fiberglass, Inc., particularly Sib Banerjee and Pete Emrich, provided technical input during the fabrication process and their help is greatly appreciated. Paul McDad was instrumental for the field evaluation and his help is appreciated.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 14 • Issue 5 • September 2009
Pages: 309 - 318
Copyright
© 2009 ASCE.
History
Received: Jun 4, 2008
Accepted: Sep 17, 2008
Published online: Aug 14, 2009
Published in print: Sep 2009
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