Nonlinear Analysis of Strengthened Bridge Deck Panels with Carbon Fiber Sheets

Abstract

Nonlinear analysis of reinforced concrete Bridge Deck Panels strengthened by carbon fiber reinforcement sheets has been investigated in this paper. The ANSYS 12.1 computer program was used for this purpose. The finite element models are developed using a smeared crack approach for concrete , three dimensional solid elements(solid 65) for concrete, One dimensional solid elements(Link8) for steel reinforced bars , and three dimensional layered elements(solid 46) for carbon fiber sheets (CFS). Three-dimensional finite element analysis was conducted to obtain the response of the strengthened Bridge Deck Panels with CFS in terms of applied load –deflection. Comparison with previous experimental studies shows about 90% agreements.The effects of some influencing parameters including steel reinforcement ratio and carbon fiber sheets thickness on the behavior of strengthened Bridge Deck Panel were studied. The main conclusion was the steel reinforcement ratio is main factor affecting the structural strength.