Behavior of precast fiber-reinforced concrete tunnel segments reinforced with FRP bars under loads

In this project, three different phases including a series of structural tests on a novel full-scale precast fiber-reinforced tunnel lining segments reinforced with FRP composite materials are proposed. The three different phases include (1) Structural testing of novel precast concrete tunnel lining segments in the structural laboratory, University of Sherbrooke; (3) field implementation, application, and monitoring novel precast concrete lining segments in tunnel project; and the last phase (3) is finite element analysis to be conducted in order to optimize the design parameters concrete dimension and FRP reinforcement ratio for different load scenarios. Different parameters will be considered in the experimental program, (1) type and ratio of reinforcement; (2) concrete type and strength; (3) fiber dosage; and (4) shear reinforcement and closed ties. Also, the finite element analysis will be conducted (using Ansys software) for comparison with the experimental results. Parametric studies will also be undertaken to optimize the design of FRP reinforced concrete segments in order to improve their service life compared to those using steel reinforcing bars. The recommendations of this research project will be used to carry out pilot projects that will be carried out in collaboration with industrial partners.

Faculty Supervisor:

Brahim Benmokrane

Student:

Partner:

SFTec Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Université de Sherbrooke

Program: