The objective of this research is to determine if the deflection equations currently adopted in ACI 440.1r-15 and previously ACI 440.1r-06 accurately reflect the flexural behavior of an over-reinforced Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) concrete beam. This was accomplished with experimental, analytical and numerical models. The experiment consisted of two beams doubly-reinforced with BFRP rebar. A three-point flexural test on beams with a 30 in. clear span was performed and the deflections were recorded with a dial gauge and LVDT system. This data was compared to the equations from ACI 440.1r-06, ACI 440.1r-15, Branson’s equation and a numerical model created in ANSYS Mechanical APDL.

Experimental results show a stiffer beam than expected when compared to the four predictive models for deflection. This can be due to the level of over-reinforcement and the small clear-span to depth ratio. Further research should be conducted to determine the cause for the additional stiffness.