Analysis of structure and methods for integrating polymer-composite main beams of span structures and the deck slab of road bridges

This study is dedicated to the analysis of structure and methods for integrating polymer-composite main beams of span structures with the deck slab of road bridges. The issues concerning the application of polymer composite materials alongside traditional concrete and steel are examined, and the potential for developing hybrid span structures is justified. The article presents an overview of domestic and foreign solutions for the integration of polymer-composite main beams with the deck slab. Given the relative novelty of using polymer composite materials in bridge construction and the lack of regulatory documentation, structurally similar reinforced concrete span structures and existing methods for their integration into cooperative work are initially reviewed. Attention is then directed towards hybrid designs of span structures that combine fiberglass and concrete. Based on the conducted analysis, requirements for the design of the integration between polymer-composite main beams and the deck slab are formulated. Special emphasis is placed on specific factors influencing the choice of a promising design, including the nature of joint operation, type of contact, material of the connecting element, as well as the materials used for the deck slab and main beams. Furthermore, structural features and manufacturing methods of main beams are discussed. An analysis of failure mechanisms in the upper sheet of composite beams is conducted to better account for operating conditions of connecting elements and their impact on the physical-mechanical properties of fiberglass main beams. To assess the validity of analytical assumptions regarding a promising integration design, it is necessary to perform calculations and mathematical modeling, conduct optimization of the design, and manufacture prototype models for field experiments that will establish the correspondence between theoretical conclusions and actual performance of the structure.