Dr. Larry Bank is a world wide well known pioneer in the field of applications of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) in structural applications. The presentation will describe a number of recent applications of FRP composites in bridge projects in Wisconsin, US. In 2003, the deck of a 70 m long by 15 m wide two-span continuous bridge with PC concrete girders was reinforced with a Stay-in-Place (SIP) FRP formwork and a FRP grid system. In 2004, the deck of a second 42 m long by 15 m wide single-span bridge with wide-flange PC T-girders was reinforced with massive prefabricated FRP grids. Both projects are on a major highway carrying 18,000 vehicles a day. The purpose of using the FRP systems was to improve the long-term performance and facilitate rapid construction of bridges. In a third recent project, a small concrete slab bridge built in 1930 was rapidly strengthened using FRP strips and mechanical fasteners in order to increase its load rating.

Vortragssprache: englisch