Development and testing of a new GFRP foot-bridge deck panel

The aim of the paper is to present the process of developing of a new footbridge deck member made of GFRP (glass fibre reinforced polymer) composite using pultrusion production method. The first step was to develop the optimal shape of the cross-section from the point of view of structural strength and material consumption. In the second step of the research the optimal GFRP material (combination of glass roving and reinforcing mats, polymer matrix and additives) was found and tested on tensile strength and fire resistance. The last step was to verify the expected properties of the final product – bridge deck members were tested by static four-point bending and local concentrated force to fulfil requirements of the Eurocode standards so developed bridge deck can be used on pedestrian bridges with the emergency use of medical motor vehicles. In the frame of research numerical simulations of bending tests of bridge deck panels were carried out.