Optimum Design of a Pultruded FRP Bridge Deck

Abstract

In this paper, an optimum design of GFRP bridge deck having a pultruded cellular cross-section is presented. The optimization process utilizes an improved Genetic Algorithms (GAs) with an Index Technique. Based on the optimum design, viable cross-sectional dimension, volumes of fibers and matrix, fiber orientation, and stacking sequence for GFRP decks suitable for the pultrusion process are proposed.