| To evaluate fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) technology for the bridge rehabilitation industry, this research investigates the cost-effectiveness of externally-bonded FRP sheets as a repair option for circular reinforced-concrete bridge piers. Wrapping with FRP sheets, and a variation that includes prior patching, are compared against traditional repair techniques including shotcreting, patching, and concrete and steel jacketing. An evaluation of five existing computer applications (Life-365, BridgeLCC, CORRODE, PRVAL and COSBEN), and an assessment of bridge management systems and life-cycle cost analysis models offer insight toward the development of MORE FRP (Management Of REpair with Fibre-Reinforced Polymers), a decision-support tool using life-cycle cost analysis and performance prediction. Rehabilitation scenarios are analyzed in a Replacement and Service Life Extension Models. Unique to MORE FRP is the recommendation of optimum rehabilitation scenarios through a decision-making process that furnishes practical decision-making criteria to owners, engineers, and managers. |
