Carbon Fiber Concrete Reinforcement

The use of carbon fiber reinforced polymers allows bridge designers to upgrade the capacity of existing bridge sections “sandwiched” between higher capacity expansions. This type of bridge load rating upgrade is frequently needed in areas where older bridges have been widened, sometimes several times, to accommodate increased traffic. Since the bridge rating is controlled by the weakest component of the bridge, load rating upgrades are a way of increasing the bridge’s overall rating, and carbon fiber reinforced polymers provide distinct advantages.

This technique utilizes FRP laminates instead of the traditional fabric wrap because of their very high tensile strength. FRPs are light-weight, easy to install and non-corrosive. Carbon fiber laminates are preferred over flexible wraps because they come pre-fabricated and can be installed directly with just epoxy. FRPs have been used for years to strengthen parking decks and buildings. They have similar advantages for bridges, increasing capacity beyond current design levels.