Fatigue behavior of the foam-filled GFRP bridge deck

Investigated was the fatigue behavior of the foam-filled GFRP bridge deck in the transverse direction which is an intermediate type between the modular type deck and the sandwich type. Four different types of the specimens were prepared and tested with different stress ratios. The failure mode and the change in stiffness by the foam inside the deck was reported. The role of the foam was very clear. It reduced the damage accumulation in the web-flange joint efficiently. Compared to the reference case which was not filled, the endurance of limit of the foam-filled deck was remarkably increased. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.