Cost analysis of FRP bridge decks

Many alternative materials currently are being developed for bridges and bridge components. High-performance concrete, high-performance steel, aluminum, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites, and FRP-reinforced timber are some of the new construction materials being used for bridge and bridge components. These materials usually have some type of qualitative performance advantage over conventional materials. For example, high-performance concrete has more strength and is more impervious to road salt intrusions than conventional concrete. FRP composites require designers to create new structural shapes to meet strength and deflection requirements. Lightweight structures contribute to the ease of installation, and can be installed by hand instead of by cranes. Aluminum bridge elements are light and can be recycled easily. FRP timber components are light, are aesthetic, can be portable, and are generally low cost, but they do not have high strength and durability.