"The reported work enclosed the numerical modeling of GFRP reinforced concrete bridge barrier under static and impact load. The GFRP configurations were designed to fit into the existing MoDOT Type D barrier structures. The constructability of the GFRP reinforcement was also taken into consideration. Both static and dynamic loading were modeled to examine the strength of the GFRP reinforced concrete bridge barrier under vehicle impact. The results showed that the designed barrier can withhold a reaction force of 200 kips, which satisfies the AASHTO specifications. The design load is also significantly higher than the impact loads generated by vehicle collision"--Abstract.

The aim of this thesis is to develop the necessary design knowledge and tools to implement an innovative Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebar shape in traffic railings. The innovation lies in the use of GFRP continuous closed stirrups that have become recently available. The design method is based on AASHTO-LRFD Bridge Design Specification and the latest specifications issued by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for Reinforced Concrete Traffic Barriers. After the review of existing design procedures focusing on traffic barriers and understanding the mechanical characteristics of GFRP reinforcement, a modified design approach is proposed for reducing reinforcement ratios and complexity in construction. The effort included two different type of traffic railings, namely: 36"--Single Slope (36--SS) and FDOT 32" F--Shape (F32). The 36--SS is to be used as a later time test specimen. The F32 is showcased in the Halls River Bridge Replacement Project. Finally, a Mathcad application tool developed for public use as part of the FDOT design examples library illustrates the application of this configuration for traffic barriers. Continuous close GFRP stirrups champion the versatility of the FRP composite technology by accommodating to most requirements. The use of GFRP stirrups in traffic railings complements the application of non-corrosive reinforcement in transportation structures to address the demand for sustainable construction practices.

This overview examines current issues of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites in civil infrastructure. Part I engages topics related to durability and service life of FRP composites, and how they contribute to sustainability, while Part II highlights implementation and applications.

The demand for the development of a more efficient and durable transportation infrastructure is among the priorities of highway authorities worldwide. In the United States, the economic impact of steel corrosion for concrete highway bridges is estimated to exceed 15 percent of the total annual costs. Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) is highly suitable as internal reinforcement for structures subjected to corrosive environments. A number of projects have demonstrated its viability as an alternative reinforcement for bridge decks and design provisions are currently available in several countries. Nowadays, manufacturers can produce standard bar bends which can be applied to design and construct bridge components, such as pile caps and traffic barriers. The implementation of GFRP requires addressing changes in the current design philosophy for bridge structures. Whereas the overall goal of the research program is to make new technology available to bridge owners and professionals, this thesis provides principles and procedures for the design of highway concrete bridge components reinforced with GFRP bars.

The use of fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) composites for prestressed and non-prestressed concrete reinforcement has developed into a technology with serious and substantial claims for the advancement of construction materials and methods. Research and development is now occurring worldwide. The 20 papers in this volume make a further contribution in advancing knowledge and acceptance of FRP composites for concrete reinforcement. The articles are divided into three parts. Part I introduces FRP reinforcement for concrete structures and describes general material properties and manufacturing methods. Part II covers a three-continent perspective of current R&D, design and code implementations, and technical organizations' activities. Part III presents an in-depth description of commercially-available products, construction methods, and applications. The work is intended for engineers, researchers, and developers with the objective of presenting them with a world-wide cross-section of initiatives, representative products and significant applications.