Fibre reinforced polymer composite bars for the structural concrete slabs of a Public Works and Government Services Canada parking garage

Abstract

Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) is currently undertaking the reconstruction of the interior structural slabs of the Laurier-Taché parking garage (Hull, Quebec). An agreement between PWGSC and the Université de Sherbrooke was reached to use fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement technology in some demonstration areas of the Laurier–Taché parking garage. Based on this agreement, three different designs using carbon and glass FRP bars were carried out in collaboration with the project consultant. These designs were made according to CAN/CSA-S806-02, Design and Construction of Building Components with Fibre-Reinforced-Polymers. To verify the design, it was agreed to conduct laboratory testing on full-scale slab prototypes of the proposed designs. This paper presents the results of the experimental tests where six full-sized one-way slabs were constructed and tested. The slabs were 3100 mm long × 1000 mm wide × 150 mm deep and were tested under four-point bending. The test results along with a comparison to the predictions of CAN/CSA-S806-02 Code and ACI 440.1R-03 design guidelines are presented. Recommendations for design of FRP-reinforced concrete slabs are also given.Key words: concrete slabs, parking garages, FRP bars, flexural behaviour, cracking, deflection.