Bridges

Fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are commonly used in the aerospace and marine industries. Due to their inherent advantages, FRP composites are increasingly making their way into civil engineering applications. In the field of bridge engineering, FRP composites are used mainly for strengthening and rehabilitation purposes. To date the number of primary structural applications of polymer composite materials in Victorian bridge construction remains relatively low. However, FRP composites are thinner, lighter, and non-corrosive, exhibit much higher tensile strength and are much easier and quicker to install without the need for expensive and disruptive temporary support systems. This paper discusses the specification requirements and acceptance criteria for strengthening of existing concrete structures using FRP Composites. This paper also presents a case study of strengthening of the Bass Hwy Bridge in Victoria.