Title:
Full-Scale Tests of Bridge Components Strengthened Using Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites
Author(s):
Sergio F. Brena, Sharon L. Wood, and Michael E. Kreger
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
100
Issue:
6
Appears on pages(s):
775-784
Keywords:
polymer; reinforced concrete; strength.
DOI:
10.14359/12844
Date:
11/1/2003
Abstract:
The results of four tests of full-scale reinforced concrete specimens representative of common short-span bridges in Texas are presented in this paper. The specimens were strengthened to increase their flexural capacity using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates. Realistic field conditions were represented to the extent possible in the laboratory. The techniques that were used to design the strengthening systems are presented, and the necessary assumptions are evaluated using the measured data. The results indicate that the strengthened specimens failed after the composites reached 50 to 65% of the rupture strength of the laminates.