Title:
Mathematical Solution for Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Prestressed Concrete Skew Bridges
Author(s):
Nabil F. Grace, George Abdel-Sayed, J. Wahba, and S. Sakla
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
96
Issue:
6
Appears on pages(s):
981-987
Keywords:
carbon fiber-reinforced polymers; mathematical models; membrane theory; prestressed concrete; tendons.
DOI:
10.14359/773
Date:
11/1/1999
Abstract:
A mathematical solution for concrete skew bridges prestressed using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) tendons is discussed in this paper. The developed solution is based on a closed-form series function in which the bridge is assumed to behave as an orthotropic plate. Membrane theory is also integrated in the mathematical solution in order to simulate the effect of internal and external prestressing forces. The effects of prestressing forces in the longitudinal and transverse directions are taken into consideration. Flexural and torsional rigidity formulas are derived and implemented in the solution. From this mathematical solution, deflections, induced stresses, and strains during various stages of construction can be predicted. To substantiate the validity of the developed mathematical method, results are compared to those obtained by finite element analysis, using ABAQUS software, and experimental method. The experimental part of this research included the construction of two double-T (DT) prestressed concrete bridge models. The first model was a right angle bridge, whereas the second model was a skew bridge. CFRP prestressing rods were used as internal and externally draped tendons. Comparing the results of the developed mathematical treatment with those of the experimental investigation and the finite element analysis indicates that they are in good agreement, demonstrating the suitability of the proposed rigidity formulas and the developed mathematical solution.