Propuesta de protocolo para la correcta aplicación de fibra de carbono en losas de concreto en la readecuación de puentes

Abstract

The lack of a permanent process of maintenance for bridges in Costa Rica, for many years and the increasing of the capacity of transport vehicles have had a significant impact that had damaged some structures which were designed under different assumptions. In some cases, strengthening of the existing structure is required without compromising the overall stability of the same and also at risk, such intervention should ensure continued vehicle traffic, since it is often impossible to have alternate routes or temporary diversions. It is for this reason, that is necessary to establish a protocol for the correct application of carbon fiber bridge deck repair. For this, the bridge over the Sarapiquí River was taken as a reference, where the placement of the reinforcement will run on the top and underside of the slab, and to do a document to guide proper placement of the fiber reinforcement on the existing structure. In addition, operational and monitoring recommendations will be provided during the process, supported by current local and international standards, manufacturer information and field observations, as currently there is few experience in Costa Rica on this topic.