Evaluation of Alternative Materials for Timber Bridge Deck Plank Replacement

About the project:

his project will focus on the evaluation of alternative materials for timber bridge deck planks to address the increasing costs, extended lead times, and maintenance challenges associated with the timber traditionally used by VDOT. The study will include a literature and product review, experimental material and structural testing and a cost and feasibility analysis of alternative materials such as alternative timber species to what VDOT currently specifies, fiber-reinforced polymer composites, plastics, and isophthalic polyesters. Material testing will include mechanical, asphalt bonding, surface friction, and durability testing, while structural testing will include beam tests and connection tests on the alternative materials. The cost and feasibility analysis will consider aspects such as the material cost, expected lead times, ease of fabrication and installation, durability, and general ease of implementation. The projected outcome of this study will be recommended alternative materials for use in timber plank replacements. Implementation strategies will also be provided for incorporating these alternative materials into VDOT’s bridge maintenance practices.

Project Team

Co-Principal Investigators

Other Investigators