BEHAVIOR OF GRAPHITE/EPOXY CONCRETE COMPOSITE BEAMS

The results of an exploratory experimental and analytical study of six concrete-graphite/epoxy (CG/E) composite beams are presented. Four of the beams incorporated a reinforced concrete slab to simulate the effect of bridge decks or floor slabs. The test variables were the shape of the graphite/epoxy (G/E) elements and the strength of concrete. The G/E beams were connected to the concrete slabs by an epoxy resin. The composite action and the effect of concrete strength on bond, stiffness, and strength were studied. The results showed that it may be possible to predict the response of these beams using familiar and existing theories. The use of epoxy resin to bond concrete deck to G/E elements was only partially effective. Mechanical connectors or other reliable means are needed to develop composite action between G/E elements and concrete. Many other issues such as optimized fiber orientation and means of improving the local stiffness and strength of thin-walled G/E elements need to be addressed.