I have previously discussed University of Maine's composite bridge technology. Yesterday there was an article in section D-1 of the New York Times highlighting this composite technology.
Here is the online version of the article, it goes into detail on the design, but essentially, inflatable tubes made of glass and carbon are arched across the span. These tubes are then impregnated while in position, and filled with concrete. Composite panels (I assume pultruded) are affixed on top of the large tube structures, followed by gravel and pavement.
Composite bridges are not new, if fact Asia has been a believer in composite bridge technology for some time now (will try and find supporting information). The upfront costs are often higher with composite materials, however the speed of installation can often outweigh the price premium on busy roadways.
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