Multiscale Fiber Reinforced Polymer Nanocomposite for Wide-span Field Assembled Bridges

There is an unmet need in the US Army for wide-span bridges that can be deployed in the field. This requires lightweight materials and tool-kit designs for easy and quick installation. The materials must possess enhanced load-bearing capacity, improved weather resistance, and longer service lives than conventional materials. In this Phase I program, we propose to demonstrate the feasibility of a fiber-reinforced composite with new and novel fiber and polymer morphologies. The multiscale-composite material is expected to fulfill the materials properties requirements for wide-span bridge applications, particularly strength and durability. These new materials, coupled with advances in modular construction designs, will provide the Army with a lightweight, durable, and long-lasting alternative to traditional materials, while facilitating in-field deployment. The program is a collaborative effort with a University Center that has successfully designed and implemented Army bridge materials. A key aspect of the proposed program is that it utilizes innovative materials and processing technologies to allow for novel and unique lightweight, strong, and durable composites. The Phase II program will build upon the Phase I demonstration effort by implementing the technology in actual bridge designs and bridge kits for the US Army.