Draft final report; Jan.-May 2012.

University of North Florida

NTL-OPERATIONS AND TRAFFIC CONTROLS-Traffic Control Devices ; NTL-REFERENCES AND DIRECTORIES-REFERENCES AND DIRECTORIES ;

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Inspections of tubular sign structures by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) have

revealed occurrences of premature corrosion on the inside of galvanized steel tubes. As a result, FDOT

engineers are seeking alternative materials that may be employed in such structures. Researchers at the

University of North Florida (UNF) have conducted a literature review of the state-of-the-practice of

employing fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites in such applications. The results of this literature

review indicate that FRP composites have promising material characteristics for such applications. FRP

composites do not corrode and possess significantly lower densities, which may result in lower

construction costs, and extended service life. It is noted however that there will be a short-term

premium associated with the implementation of new technology, as compared with the use of traditional

construction materials. Further, it is noted that FRP composites tend to fail in a more brittle manner,

whereas traditional construction materials are assumed to exhibit greater ductility prior to failure.

Consequently, the need for proven design standards, and specifically connection details, will be critical

for widespread implementation. Based on this literature review, it is recommended that FDOT engage

in a pilot project to test and evaluate the merits of using FRP composites for sign truss structures in

Florida. It is proposed that different commercially available products and different design details,

specifically connections be evaluated as part of the proposed further study.

US Transportation Collection

BDK82 977-06