Structural behaviour of aluminium bridge deck panels

The use of lightweight bridge decks made of FRP composites or aluminium alloys is particularly effective for replacing deteriorated bridge decks. Therefore a research program has been undertaken to develop and implement an innovative aluminium bridge deck system, which would be applicable and realizable in domestic conditions. Several service load and ultimate load tests have been carried out on the prefabricated 2.10×3.20 m deck panels, in order to examine and evaluate the panel behaviour under standard truck load, and when loaded to failure. The results of the service load study indicated adequate strength and stiffness of the deck panel. Two ultimate-load tests were conducted to further investigate the failure mechanism. The study clearly demonstrates that an aluminium bridge deck panel is a feasible alternative to RC decks from the standpoint of stiffness, strength and load carrying capacity.