A Load-Deflection Study of Fiber-Reinforced Plastics as Reinforcement in Concrete Bridge Decks

Type of Document Master's Thesis
Author Boyd, Curtis Barton
URN etd-4814221949711381
Title A Load-Deflection Study of Fiber-Reinforced Plastics as Reinforcement in Concrete Bridge Decks
Degree Master of Science
Department Civil Engineering
Advisory Committee
Advisor Name Title
Richard M. Barker Committee Chair
Richard E. Weyers none
Thomas M. Murray none
Keywords

* bridge
* reinforced concrete
* bridge design
* FRP
* fiber reinforced plastics

Date of Defense 1997-05-05
Availability unrestricted
Abstract

Approximately fifty percent of the bridges in the United

States are considered deficient. The deterioration of the

concrete components is a leading cause of the problem.

The deterioration of concrete bridge decks is due primarily

to corrosion of the reinforcing steel in the concrete. A

promising solution to the problem is the use of fiber

reinforced plastics (FRP) as a replacement for reinforcing

steel. The use of FRP as reinforcement has the following

advantages of lightweight, high tensile strength, corrosion

resistance, flexibility, and electromagnetic resistance. This

paper looks at the use of FRP as reinforcement in concrete

beams and compares the information from deflection

measurements of different configurations. Also, a material

cost comparison is made to determine the cost of using the

FRP reinforcement over standard steel reinforcement.

Concrete bridge deck systems are designed using steel and

fiber-reinforced plastics and allowable stress and load

resistance factor methods. Recommendations for further

study and uses of FRP are made.

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