Strengthening steel bridge sections using CFRP laminates

This paper presents results from an experimental investigation to determine the feasibility of using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) epoxy lami nates to repair steel composite bridge members. Six specimens, each consist ing of a 6.1 m long W8 x 24 wide flange A36 steel beam acting compositely w ith a 0.114 m thick by 0.71 m wide reinforced concrete slab, were first loa ded past yield of the tension flange to simulate severe service distress. T he damaged specimens were then repaired using 3.65 m lengths of 2 or 5 mm t hick CFRP laminates bonded to the tension flange and tested to failure. The results indicated significant ultimate strength gains but more modest impr ovement in the elastic response. Non-linear finite element analyses were in good agreement with the experimental results. The study suggests that it i s feasible to strengthen steel composite members using CFRP laminates. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.