Epoxy-bonded steel plates have been used to strengthen or repairconcrete bridges in many countries around the world. Because most of the information pertaining to this subject has been published outside the united states, an extensive literature review was undertaken; this paper summarizes some of the research and applications related to this strengthening technique. Information relevant to the bonding procedure is provided, including methods for preparing the bonding surfaces and guidelines for adhesive selection and application. Research results pertaining to variations in the plate geometry, the effects of cyclic loading, and steel-to-steel bonding are also presented. Numerous applications of this strengthening technique are described. Although no original research results are presented, an extensive bibliography and a formatted table indicating the topics addressed are included for convenient reference. This paper appears in transportation research record no. 1180, bridge design and testing.
Abstract