ABSTRACT
Typical repair techniques for bridge girders and decks are often time-consuming and require long periods of traffic control that add significantly to the project cost. In some projects, where the bridge is crossing a body of water, the low headroom below the bridge can make these repairs even more challenging. The introduction of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) products in recent years has shortened repair times in many cases. However, even when conventional FRP products are used, repairs can still be time-consuming and difficult.
This paper presents a recent type of FRP laminate developed by the author. These laminates consist of flat panels, typically 900mm wide by any length. The laminates are flat on one face but have protruding T profiles on the other face. That face is also grit-coated for improved bonding to concrete. These panels can be cut to desired width and length and connected to the bottom and sides of a beam or slab, creating an annular space between the panels and the host structure. The annular spaced is filled with non-shrink grout or concrete. The T profiles act as reinforcing bars that are permanently attached to the panel, making the panel behave as a stay-place-form that includes reinforcing bars. In most cases, the tensile strength of the flat panel and the T profiles add sufficient strength to eliminate the need for any additional reinforcing bars.
The panels are non-corroding, ensuring a long service life for the repaired structure. Moreover, the panels act as an impervious barrier, keeping moisture and oxygen away and significantly reducing the corrosion rate of the host structure. The repairs are ideal for projects with limited access or when long delays in traffic are deemed unacceptable. A case study using a similar solution at the Port of Galveston will also be presented.
