The i-Bridge, an Industrial Bridge Concept, Feasibility Studies

Feasibility studies on a novel bridge concept embracing industrial bridge engineering, conceptual design and finite element (FE) analyses have been carried out at Chalmers University of Technology. Thei-bridgeconcept consists of v-shaped glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) beams reinforced by carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) profiles. The deck consists of GFRP plates in composite action with ultra-high-performance steel-fibre reinforced concrete (UHPSFRC). In addition, an experimental study of the bond between UHPSFRC cast upon GFRP sheets was conducted to evaluate the best solutions for interfaces in the concept. Both shear and tension tests were performed. Furthermore, a laboratory load test and finite element analyses of a prototype bridge beam were carried out. The paper presents a general description of the bridge concept and the proposed the industrial characteristics as well as a summary of the conducted feasibility studies. The investigations performed indicate that the concept could be realised from a technical structural point of view.