Finite Element Modeling of Concrete Bridge Deck Slabs Reinforced with FRP Bars

Synopsis: This paper presents the results of a finite element analysis for three different bridges that have been recently constructed and tested in North America. In these bridges, different types of reinforcement (steel and FRP reinforcing bars) were used as reinforcement for the concrete deck slabs. Two bridges, Magog Bridge and Cookshire-Eaton Bridge, are located in Quebec, Canada, while the third one, Morristown Bridge, is located in Vermont, USA. The three bridges are girder-type with main girders made of either steel or prestressed concrete. The main girders were either simply or continuously supported over spans ranging from 26.2 to 43.0 m. The deck was a 200 to 230 mm thickness concrete slab continuous over spans of 2.30 to 2.8 m. Different types, sizes, and reinforcement ratios of glass and carbon FRP reinforcing bars were used. Furthermore, the three bridges are located on different road or highway categories, which mean different traffic volumes and environments. The bridges were tested for service performance using calibrated truckloads. The results of the field load tests were used to verify the finite element model. Comparisons showed that FEM can predict the behavior of such elements. Then, the model was used to investigate the effect of the FRP reinforcement type and ratio on the service and ultimate behavior of these bridge decks. According to the findings, a proposed reinforcement ratio was recommended and verified using the FEM to meet the strength and serviceability requirements of the design codes.