Field and laboratory performance of a rectangular shaped glass fiber reinforced polymer deck

Abstract

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been favorably noticed as state-of-the art construction materials, but sufficient material and structural data about FRP applications are not available. This study was intended to evaluate the applications and safety of FRP deck systems, which are developed by laboratory testing (static and fatigue tests), field application and testing of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) deck systems made of glass fiber and vinyl ester resin. The results show that the developed FRP deck systems have the expected strength and stiffness to replace the existing systems. FRP deck systems can effectively shorten the construction time and reduce the equipment required. In addition, it is determined that there is a need to evaluate the long-term structural behavior and durability of FRP deck systems in order to obtain comprehensive data for preparing the future design, manufacturing and construction materials.