The smart FRP panel for bridge redecking – development and experimental validation of "panel – panel" and "panel – girder" connections

<p>The paper presents the smart FRP deck system, called Optideck, which was developed as a sandwich panel in which the core is ribbed by a vertical laminates forming a honeycomb structure. The panel is equipped with distributed fibre optic sensors for structural health monitoring. The sensors are built into the panel during the infusion process and fully integrated with the structure. Taking into account the design and transport constraints, the final parts of the deck slab have to be connected longitudinally or transversely on site, which is quite a challenge due to the irregular form of the ribbed core. The panel has to be also efficiently attached to the main girders of the bridge. The paper presents the stages of creating the concept of panel-panel and panel-concrete and steel girder connections, their design, production of prototypes and finally their static and fatigue tests in the laboratory. The conclusions drawn from the individual stages led to the selection of the best solution and its use in the future in the final deck panels.</p>