Abstract
An innovative type of FRP-concrete composite deck is proposed, and its design concept and structural type are presented. The performances of the proposed system as a bridge deck are examined so as to verify its actual applicability. The proposed FRP-concrete composite deck is innovative regard to its bottom constituted by a hollowed GFRP panel fabricated by pultrusion, which plays the role of permanent form and main tensile member, and on which concrete is cast. The composition of FRP and concrete is realized by coarse sand coating and shear connecting plate, which has been verified to develop sufficient composite effect by means of push-out tests. Moreover, the composite effect between the deck and girder is examined and pure shear tests were carried out on the shear stud connection. The studs were seen to develop similar ultimate strength than precast deck, which satisfied the actually required performances. In addition, a full-scale deck was built and subjected to static and wheel load fatigue tests so as to investigate its behavioral characteristics. Test results verified that the proposed deck satisfies the relevant design codes. Consequently, this innovative FRP-concrete composite deck proposed in this study is seen to offer improved constructability and durability compared to former decks, and to present sufficient practicability as a bridge deck.