Modular polymer matrix composite support structure and methods of constructing same

摘要

A load bearing support structure in the form of a traffic-bearing highway bridge including at least one modular structural section. The at least one modular structural section includes at least one beam, the beam comprising a pair of lateral flanges and a medial web between and extending below the flanges. The beam preferably has a flat floor. A load bearing deck is positioned above and supported by the flanges of the at least one beam. The beam and load bearing deck are preferably formed of a polymer matrix composite material. The beam is positioned on and supported by one of a plurality of support members. The beam has a contoured shape configured to be matably supported by a support member having a reciprocally configured contoured shaped. Alternatively, a flat or L-shape support member can be utilized. Further alternatively, the load bearing deck comprising at least one sandwich panel is suitable for applications such as barge decks, hatchcovers, and other load bearing wall applications. Methods of constructing a support structure utilizing the modular structural section and support members are also provided.