Assessment of Mechanically Fastened Fiber Reinforced Polymer (MF-FRP) Strips for Extending Bridge Service Life

The enhancement of load rating concrete structures by the installation of Fiber reinforced polymer strips (FRP) is becoming a preferred short-term action. The addition of supplemental tensile capacity to concrete beams by applying high tensile strength FRP strips to the exterior of concrete structures provides immediate increase in live load capacity. This study assessed the installation, theory and effectiveness of adding external FRP reinforcement. The assessment of the connections of the FRP strip to the concrete structure warrant further study to determine development strengths and bearing capacity. Analysis of the system confirmed that it is a cost effective technique to increase load rating for concrete pier cap applications. Supplemental detailing to include improved shear connection at the bolting points may provide an improved in-place performance of the FRP.