Numerical investigation on structural performance of GFRP composite bridge decks

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials are increasingly being utilized by engineers to create more efficient and cost-effective structural systems due to their exceptional properties, including a high strength-to-weight ratio, non-corrosiveness, and modularity. Glass fiber reinforced (GFRP) composite decks are currently gaining popularity in civil engineering applications. The behaviour of FRP decks depends on flexural and torsional stiffness, which is greatly influenced by the geometry, laminate configuration, and stiffener patterns. In this study, the flexural and torsional behaviour of a GFRP bridge deck was investigated by conducting a numerical study. A total of 960 analyses were performed using finite element analysis software ABAQUS. The validation of the finite element model was achieved through comparing its results to experimental data from the literature, and it showed strong agreement in terms of deflection. The study also examines the impact of laminate configuration and stiffener patterns on flexural and torsional behaviour by analysing the trends observed. The deck with V configuration stiffener patterns were found to be the most effective in bending. For torsion, Y stiffener configuration decks produce better performance. Further, L1 case produce better performance in bending and L3 case produce better performance in torsion.