It has been 20 years since FRP composites ventured into the bridge world. I say “world” because the first pedestrian bridge project took place across the Northern Atlantic in Aberfeldy, Scotland. The first vehicle bridge was installed over No-Name-Creek in Russell, Kansas. Since then it has been “a long and winding road,” to quote the Beatles. It has also been a road pot-holed with challenges. At this year's CAMX conference in Dallas, I'll give a presentation on 20 years of FRP in civil infrastructure applications.
I'll discuss the five areas championed by the Transportation Structures Council of ACMA:
- vehicle bridge decks
- pedestrian bridge decks
- rebar
- strengthening
- pilings
I'll highlight the successes, challenges and opportunities in each of these areas. Market fit is critical. We’ve seen some products become niche applications while other products have prompted the adoption of FRP composites as a mainstream material. I hope you’ll join me at the conference and attend my presentation on Wednesday, October 27 at 2 pm.
