Computational Modeling of Aramid Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Prestressed Girder in Composite Action with Bridge Deck

Aramid fiber-reinforced polymer (AFRP) tendons, which are inherently corrosion-resistant, can be used to replace steel prestressing strands in bridge girders to enhance bridge sustainability. Despite ongoing experimental research, there is a lack of uniformity and consistency in testing procedures, definitions of material characteristics, and results. Therefore, a robust computational model is needed to perform a refined nonlinear analysis of full-scale AFRP prestressed girders. This paper presents the development of a computational model to numerically evaluate the flexural behavior of an AASHTO I-girder (Type I) prestressed with AFRP tendons in comparison to its conventional prestressing steel counterpart. Numerical results match experimental test data with a high degree of accuracy and reveal that an AASHTO I-girder prestressed with AFRP meets service and strength limit states. Numerical results also show that the deflection equation in ACI 440.4R overestimates the maximum deflection of the AFRP prestressed girder. Copyright 2013 American Concrete Institute.

Computational Modeling of Aramid Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Prestressed Girder in Composite Action with Bridge Deck Academic Article