Corrosion-resistant FRP reinforcement for bridge deck slabs

Abstract

This paper discusses the beneficial influence of compressive membrane action in fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforced in-plane restrained slabs in bridge deck slabs and the improved service performance when arching action occurs. Bridge deck slabs that are exposed to extreme environmental conditions can experience severe corrosion damage. Expansive corrosion in steel reinforcement significantly reduces the design life and durability of concrete structures; for example, on one short section of the M1 in Northern Ireland, nearly £1 million was spent last year on the maintenance and repair of bridges due to corrosion. Corrosion-resistant composite reinforcement such as basalt fibre reinforced polymer (BFRP) and glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) provides a durable alternative to reinforcing steel. In this research, two BFRP reinforced slabs and two GFRP reinforced slabs were constructed using high-strength concrete with a target cube compressive strength of 65 N/mm2. The slabs represented typical full-scale dimensions of a real bridge deck slab 475 mm wide by 1425 mm long and 150 mm deep. The service and ultimate behaviour of the slabs are discussed and the results are compared with the relevant design guidelines.