Book Description
In recent years, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) deck systems have emerged as a viable alternative to conventional systems, namely reinforced-concrete slabs. The use of such systems to replace existing, deteriorated bridge deck systems offers both economic benefits and improved performance. The economic advantages are possible for a number of reasons: since such composite systems are lighter, considerable savings are realized by reduced transportation costs (several deck systems can be transported on one truck); erection costs will be less as relatively light cranes can be used to install the decks; and construction time is reduced, which eliminates long traffic delays. Due to the high resistance of FRP deck systems to environmental effects and corrosion attack, the long- term performance is also expected to be improved significantly, leading to lower maintenance and longer service life.