GFRP composite footbridge series with multi-box cross section – Part 1: Design methodology, conceptual design and global detailed design

Abstract An original conceptual structural and technological design of a series of GFRP composite footbridges was developed, with a multi-box cross-section. A methodology for the design of these footbridges was elaborated using the appropriate Eurocodes and the design code developed by the European Structural Polymeric Composites Group. A method for computer-aided design calculations of the footbridge series using MSC.Marc FE code was formulated. The criteria for the preliminary design and the global detailed design of FRP composite footbridges were established. The structural design of a pedestrian-and-cyclist GFRP composite bridge with a 16.00 m span length and 2.56 m usable width (study case) was created, belonging to the above-mentioned series. Global detailed calculations were carried out as part of the design of the case study footbridge. Seven ultimate limit states and two serviceability limit states were taken into account, and the relevant simulation results were presented. The dimensions of the case study footbridge adopted on the basis of the preliminary design lead to fulfilment of the load-bearing and service conditions in the global detailed calculations. The GFRP composite footbridge series appears to be competitive in terms of technology and price in comparison with existing FRP composite footbridges.