Upgrading of an existing concrete-steel bridge using fibre reinforced polymer deck - A feasibility study

Paper in proceeding, 2012

This paper examines the structural efficiency of fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) decks for replacing traditional concrete decks intended for bridge upgrading. The investigation, which is performed by means of finite element analysis, is demonstrated on an existing non-composite concrete-steel bridge. The bridge had an inadequate structural capacity to bear the current traffic loads. Two alternative solutions are considered: replacing the old deteriorated concrete deck with a mechanically connected FRP (i.e. without composite action) and a solution where the deck acts compositely with the underlying steel girders. Different connection techniques between the girders and FRP deck are examined for both solutions. The finite element analysis is used to assess the overall structural behaviour of the bridge as well as the interfacial stresses between the FRP deck and the steel girders under different loading conditions. The results show that a significant stress reduction can be obtained by replacing the concrete deck with the lightweight FRP deck. This reduction is more pronounced if the deck is designed to work compositely with the existing steel girders.