Bright, Christopher, authorvan de Lindt, John W., advisorAtadero, Rebecca, advisorRadford, Donald, committee member2007-01-032007-01-032014http://hdl.handle.net/10217/83905This thesis evaluates two new glass-fiber reinforced polymer concrete reinforcement systems which have been designed to serve as a non-corrosive alternative to steel reinforcement in reinforced concrete bridge girders. Due to the nature of the reinforcement geometry, these systems react in a way to introduce compressive confinement into the concrete in the inner regions of the system units. The introduction of this compressive confinement zone will increase particle interaction effects which results in increased shear and tensile force resistance contributed by the affected concrete. The system is also well integrated into the surrounding concrete matrix, therefore eliminating the potential for debonding failures. A proof of concept is conducted in order to evaluate a set of alternative reinforcement system prototypes. Before the reinforcement systems are evaluated, technical literature pertaining to alternative reinforcements is reviewed. Select specimens provided evidence of sufficient mechanically constrictive behavior. Indications of good bond strength and shear strength contribution from the flexural reinforcement systems were also found. Parameters which control the structural behavior of the reinforcement system were identified.born digitalmasters thesesengCopyright and other restrictions may apply. User is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. For information about copyright law, please see https://libguides.colostate.edu/copyright.Text