Joining techniques for fiber reinforced polymer composite bridge deck systems

Bridge decks made from fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been increasingly used in rehabilitation and new construction of pedestrian and highway bridges. For each application, connections are inevitable due to limitations on shape size and the requirements of transportation. Connections for FRP bridge decks include primary and secondary load-carrying joints and non-structural joints. Primary and secondary load-carrying connections are most concerned in construction, which include component-component connection, panel-panel connection, and deck-to-support connection. Unfortunately, the technical background, development and design guides of FRP bridge deck connections have not been documented adequately in literature. This paper attempts to provide technical background, developed joining techniques, and design principles concerning the joining of FRP decks. Design requirements, characteristics, performances, advantages and disadvantages of developed FRP deck connection techniques are discussed. Design principles for adhesively bonded joints and mechanical fixing and hybrid joints involving cutouts are also provided.