Strengthening of a Bridge Using Two FRP Technologies

Abstract

The use of externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) laminates and near surface mounted FRP bars is presented for the flexural strengthening of a concrete bridge. The following conclusion can be drawn: as a result of the FRP strengthening, load posting of the bridge was removed; FRP systems either in the form of externally banded laminates and near surface mounted bars showed to be a feasible solution for the strengthening of the concrete bridge; in situ load testing has proven to be useful and convincing; and the FEM analysis has shown good match with experimental results demonstrating the effectiveness of the strengthening techniques.