Development of Cost-Effective VARTM Technology for Repair and Hardening - Design Method and Specifications for ALDOT Contractor: Phase 3

摘要

Resin infusion, a method of fabricating fiber reinforced polymer (FRP), has been shown to produce a stronger FRP of more consistent quality than other methods. It is a preferred method of fabrication in industries like automotive, aerospace, and boat building. In infrastructure, however, FRP is commonly applied by the hand layup method. Hand layup produces FRP of questionable quality. Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM), a form of resin infusion, can be used to apply externally bonded FRP to infrastructure to increase structural capacity. Based on experience and knowledge in other industries, VARTM is expected to produce a better FRP than that currently used in infrastructure. This report aims to facilitate the transfer of a proven technology for the benefit of this industry. This report highlights VARTM's benefits compared to hand layup for infrastructure applications. Shear and flexural strength and strain are tested and compared to verify the assumption that VARTM can produce a better FRP. FRP durability is one of the main areas where further research is needed for externally bonded FRP. This report does a thorough analysis of the performance of both VARTM and hand layup FRP durability. Temperature and humidity have been identified as the principal drivers of environmental degradation. Accelerated conditioning protocols (ACP) for both temperature extremes are applied.