Modal testing as a means of quantitative monitoring of damage progression in a model FRP rehabilitated bridge deck system

Although substantial research has been conducted on the application of externally bonded fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) materials as a means of strengthening deficient and deteriorating concrete components most studies, and even field monitoring, have been at the component level. There is lack of data regarding the systems level response of strengthening. This paper reports on the results of an investigation of the effect of progressive strengthening of a slab-girder system through initial flexural strengthening of the decks followed by shear strengthening of the central girder. The progression of damage after each phase of loading was assessed through a process of forced vibration based modal testing. The paper focuses on modal testing and model updating procedures as a means of structural health monitoring and indicates that the process can be used effectively to accurately show changes in both local and global response through the different stages of loading. The procedures not only provide an assessment of damage progression and load redistribution in the rehabilitated components, but also enable an accurate representation of response at the systems and local (through support locations) levels.