Mathematical Model for Fiber Reinforced Polymer Dowels Subjected to Tensile and Shear Forces

Abstract

A mechanical failure analysis model was developed to predict the behavior and failure of FRP dowels subjected to tensile and shear forces. The model consists of two sub-models. To model dowel action, the beam on elastic foundation (BEF) model was adopted and modified by introducing two indices, namely a displacement level index to accommodate the concrete subgrade stiffness, and a tension index to accommodate the cable effect. The Tasi-Hill failure criterion, in which a failure factor was introduced, was used as the failure criterion for the dowels subjected to tensile and shear force. The failure analysis model was used to predict the ultimate dowel shear force and corresponding displacement. Analytical predictions were compared with the test results of the CFRP dowel specimens and a good agreement was observed.