Review of FRP decks: structural and in-service performance

Abstract

In the past two decades, fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) bridge decks have attracted a great deal of attention for applications in the refurbishment of existing bridges and for the construction of new bridges. FRP decks are lighter, more corrosion resistant and easier to install than conventional concrete decks. A considerable amount of research effort has been devoted to FRP decks and numerous bridges have been rehabilitated or constructed using these decks. This paper presents a review of the structural and field performance of FRP decks. The latest research and current practices have been synthesised, and several experts and practitioners have been consulted. Aspects related to the structural behaviour of steel bridges with FRP decks, including fatigue performance, composite action between the deck and underlying girders, the performance of various connections as well as observed failure modes are reviewed and summarised. This paper concludes by identifying areas for further research.