Finite element analysis of composite bridge deck joints

Pultruded FRP bridge decks have many advantages compared to conventional concrete decks. Joints are an integral part of composite bridge decks and modular decks with field joints normally lead to lower efficiency than monolithic decks. The joints should be designed to provide higher efficiency to transfer loads and moments from one component to another.;In this study a finite element model of a 4 -thick low-profile FRP bridge deck (Prodeck 4) made of E-glass fiber and vinyl ester resin, having a fiber volume fraction of approximately 50% and weighing about 10 lb/ft 2, is developed using the software ANSYS. The design also incorporates various joint systems such as an adhesively connected joint, mechanically riveted joint and a combined riveted and bonded joint. These modeled joints are subjected to compressive and bending loads to evaluate results such as strain profiles across the joint sections. The obtained results are compared with previous experimental results. A good correlation is found to exist between the finite element and experimental results of Prodeck 4