Development of a Cost-Effective Structural FRP Stay-In-Place Formwork System for Accelerated and Durable Bridge Deck Construction

The research presented in this paper describes the evolution of a cost-effective, structural Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) stay-in-place (SIP) formwork bridge deck system with an integrated modular three-dimensional FRP reinforcement cage. Recent research conducted at the University of Wisconsin is reviewed to show the evolution of the reinforcing system to include an integral FRP SIP form. The evolution occurred through laboratory testing, followed by the design and construction of two Wisconsin state-owned bridge structures. Each structure utilized different FRP reinforcement and formwork. These projects pointed out the need for a competitive SIP formwork to be used in conjunction with FRP reinforcement. Two specimens with different FRP reinforcement and SIP formwork arrangements were tested. Full-scale deck slab specimens were tested by applying a simulated wheel design load in order to investigate the static response, ultimate capacity and failure mechanism. The most economical FRP reinforcing system has been implemented into a superstructure replacement project in Greene County, Missouri.