Title:
Hybrid Bridges in Texas
Author(s):
Fernando V. Ulloa, Ronald D. Medlock, Paul H. Ziehl, and Timothy J. Fowler
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
26
Issue:
5
Appears on pages(s):
38-43
Keywords:
FRP; composite; cost; design; corrosion resistance; deicing salts.
DOI:
Date:
5/1/2004
Abstract:
Benefits associated with using fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) in infrastructure applications are well established. In new construction, however, the initial cost of using FRP for structural members is generally prohibitive. To address the high cost and low stiffness of FRP, the Texas Department of Transportation developed a testing program to combine FRP beams and conventionally reinforced concrete deck in a “hybrid” system. The system discussed in this article employs glass FRP beams with a conventionally reinforced concrete deck and can effectively sustain traffic loading by means of composite action.