Experimental response and code modelling of continuous concrete slabs reinforced with BFRP bars

The continuously supported BFRP reinforced concrete slabs exhibited larger deflections and wider cracks than the counterpart reinforced with steel. Furthermore, the over reinforced BFRP reinforced concrete slab at the top and bottom layers showed the highest load capacity and the least deflection of all BFRP slabs tested. All continuous BFRP reinforced concrete slabs failed owing to combined shear and flexure at the middle support region. ISIS-M03-07 and CSA S806-06 design guidelines reasonably predicted the deflection of the BFRP slabs tested. However, ACI 440-1R-06 underestimated the BFRP slab deflections and overestimated the moment capacities at mid-span and over support sections.