Precast lightweight concrete panels reinforced with glass fiber reinforced polymer bars

Corrosion of traditional steel reinforcement used in reinforced concrete bridges and parking structures exposed to water and deicing salts is of major concern. The chloride-induced corrosion of traditional steel reinforcement weakens the reinforced concrete member as well as adding to the annual maintenance cost of the structure. The resistance to corrosion of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) bars as reinforcement provides a viable alternative to steel reinforcement in areas where deterioration of steel reinforcement is an issue. Additional benefits can be obtained through the use of lightweight concrete. Lightweight concrete can allow structural members to be lighter, which is advantageous for lifting and moving operations when precast concrete elements are used. This thesis evaluates the one-way shear capacity of precast lightweight concrete panels reinforced with GFRP reinforcement. A total of six precast concrete specimens consisting of three normal weight concrete specimens and three lightweight concrete specimens reinforced with GFRP reinforcement were tested and compared. Finally, the results are compared to the theoretical shear predictions of the ACI 440.1R-06 and those provided by previous research conducted by Mr. Neil Hoult of the University of Cambridge, UK.