Study on Applicable Spans and Static Performance of the Suspension Bridges Using CFRP Cables

Abstract

Bridge constructions of crossing wider sea straits allow the span of suspension bridge to move forward unceasingly, but the self-weight stress of the traditional high-strength steel as the material of main cable accounts for the ratio of allowable stress will be increasing with the growth of main span.That will limit the main span and load-carrying efficiency.Due to its high tensile strength,small mass density,excellent corrosion and fatigue resistant ability,the carbon fiber reinforced polymer(CFRP) is the ideal material for the main cable of suspension bridge.In this paper, the feasibility of applying CFRP materials in the suspension bridges was proved and the applicable spans for the suspension bridges with CFRP cables were also provided.