Health Monitoring of FRP Composite Bridge Decks

Missouri University Of Science And Technology, Rolla MO

Investigators

Abstract

This work will provide a structural "health" monitoring capability for Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composite bridge decks. Three bridge decks are being built by an interdisciplinary team of the University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR) investigators to demonstrate the effectiveness of new FRP composite in enhancing constructability, life span, and performance. Each bridge deck will feature a different construction technology. They are being constructed in the City of St. James, Missouri using funds from the UMR, the City of St. James, and the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The construction contract has been awarded; hence, the funding need was immediate for adding "health" monitoring. Multiple fiber-optic strain sensors are being incorporated for long-term dynamic and static monitoring of performance and strength in this supplementary program which is being supported as a Small Grant for Exploratory Research (SGER).