Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Bridge Decks Utilizing GRFP Reinforcement

Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) are being increasingly used in the construction industry. One application is to use FRP bars as reinforcement in concrete. Because glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars are now being used, guidance is needed on how to design, construct, and maintain reinforced concrete structures containing this reinforcement. This report provides a discussion on design issues related to GFRP-reinforced bridge decks and is followed by a design example. Recommendations for possible modifications to the 1998 American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHTO) Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) Bridge Design Specifications have been provided. In addition, some guidelines on the construction and maintenance of GFRP-reinforced systems are provided. It should be noted that more research and field work is needed to provide standardize guidelines. This report provides guidance using the information available and the user should use sound engineering judgment in the design, construction, and maintenance of GFRP-reinforced structures.