Analysis of normative-technical and reference documentation on design and construction of bridges with superstructures made of polymer composite materials

The article presents the review of domestic and foreign scientific works, normative and reference documentation concerning design and construction of bridges with superstructures made of polymer composite materials (PCM). Taking into account the dynamic character of the construction industry development, the urgency of the composite materials application problems in bridge construction, it seems necessary to note the modern sources published or updated recently. In the paper the analysis and systematisation of the existing experience of polymer-composite materials application in Russia and abroad are performed, the basic standards and the most substantial recommendations in the field of transport construction are given, the guidelines and methodical instructions for the application of PCM in the design of not only all-composite superstructures, but also their constituent elements, as well as the documents defining the requirements to the materials testing are considered. Concise contents overviews of a number of documents and scientific articles are provided — summaries of their main provisions are given. As a result of the technical documentation analysis, normative literature and articles in periodicals and internet journals, it is stated that there is no unified approach in design, construction, and limited experience in operation of bridges with all-composite superstructures. In order to confirm the possibility of their safe operation, the required reliability, durability and compliance with consumer properties required for such structures, it is necessary to conduct experimental and theoretical studies in higher educational institutions, scientific research organisations, design and construction organisations, specialised factories producing polymer-composite products, as well as monitoring of structural elements in the operation of existing bridges.