Plenary Session:

Title:          Optimization of FRP Piles for Soil-Structure Interaction in Integral Abutment Bridges
Authors:     Amde M. Amde, Yaser Jaradat, Andreas Paraschos
Abstract:    Integral abutment bridges, despite their limitations, represent the preferred option for state transportation agencies in the United States for both new and replacement bridges. This is due to a number of advantages over conventional bridges chief among are construction and maintenance cost savings. Integral abutment bridges accommodate superstructure movement by flexure of the pilings and the use of cycle-control joints at the roadway end of the approach slabs. The most common material for integral abutment piles is steel. This paper investigates the feasibility of using fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) as a piling material in integral abutment bridges. Although FRP composites offer several advantages over conventional materials in terms of strength, weight, durability, and life cycle cost, very little research has been conducted on FRPs as a piling material. This investigation is conducted by means of parametric studies that include development of three-dimensional nonlinear finite element models. The results from the parametric studies indicate that fiber orientations in the layers have a strong effect on the pile behavior. Optimal fiber reinforced polymer pile performance is achieved with the use of a select number of layers reinforced by fibers with prescribed orientations. As such, FRP piles are a viable option as a piling material for integral abutment bridges.

Pages:        001-001

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