Reinforced Concrete Cap Beam Strengthening Using Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites

Abstract

The New York State Department of Transportation is evaluating the use of innovative materials for bridge repair. One application being investigated is the strengthening of cracked reinforced concrete cap beams using fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. In-house maintenance crews repaired two piers with FRP as part of a demonstration project with industrial partners to evaluate the benefits. One of two repair systems used is described in detail and is evaluated in terms of additional strength gained, cost effectiveness, ease and speed of installation, impact on traffic flow during repair, and long term durability. For comparison, data from a past project that employed conventional repair techniques are provided. This paper describes the project scope, subsequent repairs using FRP, and long term plans for monitoring.