Research Activities: 1998

Constructability and Performance of CFRP Prestressed Concrete Members

Status

Complete

View Report:

PDF

Sequential Number

R19

Identification Number

R-5-38015

Matching Research Agency

University of Wyoming

Principal Investigator

Antonio Nanni, Professor
Civil Engineering
University of Missouri-Rolla
224 Engineering Research Lab.
Rolla, MO 65409
p(573) 341-4553
f(573) 341-6215
nanni@mst.edu

Student Involvement

Two (2) graduate students

Project Objective

Fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) have been proposed for use in lieu of steel for reinforcement and prestressing tendons in concrete structures. The promise of FRP materials lies in their high-strength, lightweight, non-corrosive, non-conducting, and non-magnetic properties. In addition, FRP manufacturing offers a unique opportunity for the development of shapes and forms that would be difficult or impossible to fabricate with conventional steel materials. Lighter weight materials and preassembly of complex shapes can boost constructability and efficiency of construction. At present, the higher cost of FRP materials suggests that FRP will be confined to application where unique characteristics of the material are most appropriate. Efficiencies in construction and reduction in fabrication costs will expand their potential market.

Project Abstract

This report presents the state of development of fiber-based (non-metallic) reinforcement for prestressed concrete structures. It summarizes work in progress, work executed in this project and presents design recommendations for the use of FRP prestressing materials. The term fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) is used to identify this type of primary reinforcement used for prestressed concrete members. The material presented in this report includes a basic understanding of flexural and axial loaded prestressed members, bond of FRP tendons and a preliminary understanding of FRP shear reinforcement for prestressing applications. Specifications for testing FRP tendons are presented. Recommendations for AASHTO SPECIFICATIONS changes to incorporate FRP prestressing are presented in the results of this research.

Task Description

The implementation of the project is subdivided according to the following tasks: full-size test (flexure and pile driving); and development of design and construction guidelines.

Anticipated Benefits

Research conducted in this project and ancillary related research. Appendix I contains detailed recommendations for testing, evaluating and classifying FRP tendons.

Modal Orientation

N/A

Milestones

Project Start Date:
08/01/1997
Project End Date:12/31/1999

Relationship to other Research/Projects

Within UTC, this is the only project related to FRP prestressing

Technology Transfer Activities

Project deliverables include design guidelines in AASHTO format

Transportation Research Board Keywords

Anchor, CFRP tendons, flexure, and prestressed concrete