Precast Concrete Tunnel Segments with GFRP Reinforcement
Publication: Journal of Composites for Construction
Volume 21, Issue 5
Abstract
The possibility of substituting traditional steel reinforcement with glass fiber–reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars in precast concrete tunnel segmental linings is investigated. The use of GFRP reinforcement in concrete tunnel segments results in several advantages mainly related to durability enhancement or when a temporary lining is required. Full-scale bending tests were performed on concrete segments reinforced with GFRP and steel bars in order to compare their structural performance. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed GFRP solution for this type of application. Additionally, a case study is developed presenting provisions for safety checks on GFRP-reinforced tunnel segments.
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Acknowledgments
The authors are very grateful to Angelo Caratelli, who performed the experimental tests, and to ATP S.r.l. for funding the research program.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Composites for Construction
Volume 21 • Issue 5 • October 2017
Copyright
©2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jun 8, 2016
Accepted: Dec 12, 2016
Published online: Feb 27, 2017
Discussion open until: Jul 27, 2017
Published in print: Oct 1, 2017
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