Demonstration of Advanced Composite Cables for Prestressing Applications inConcrete Waterfront Structures

摘要

Corrosion of steel reinforced concrete in waterfront structures is a serious andcostly infrastructure problem. Advanced composite materials such as glass fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) and carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) do not corrode, and are attractive potential replacements for steel reinforcement and prestressing materials. The objective of this research was to demonstrate the satisfactory performance and overall economy of using advanced composites as prestressing cables in concrete construction for Civil Works type structures in corrosive environments. Piles, a deck slab, and pile caps using advanced composite prestressing cables were designed, constructed, and tested for a demonstration pier at Port Hueneme, CA. The composite prestressing system used in the pier met or exceeded all applicable standards for steel prestressed concrete structures by the American Concrete Institute and the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officers. Fabrication of the pier components required only minor procedural changes and quality control was fully effective. Composite cables cost more than steel cables, but the cost for prestressing materials represents only a small portion of total construction costs, and long term durability of the composite materials is expected to reduce overall life cycle costs in corrosive environments.