Barrier Wall Impact Simulation of Reinforced Concrete Decks with Steel and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Bars

Abstract

Many experimental studies have been performed to evaluate the behavior of noncorroding glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebars in reinforced concrete (RC) flexural members. Relatively few studies have focused on the behavior of bridge deck overhangs in the event of a barrier wall impact, which subjects this region to a combination of flexure, shear, and axial tension. The objective of this investigation is to evaluate deck overhangs under these forces. Three bridge deck reinforcing schemes were considered in the study: all epoxy-coated steel (ECS), all GFRP, and hybrid made up of a top mat of GFRP rebars and a bottom mat of ECS rebars. Laboratory testing of nine RC specimens was performed. Results showed that all three reinforcing schemes meet the AASHTO requirements.