ASTM D 8444/D8444M : 2024

1.1This specification covers glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) dowel bars, provided in cut lengths and having a smooth surface so that when embedded in concrete, the expansion and contraction of concrete along the longitudinal axis of the dowel is not inhibited. A dowel bar, commonly referred to as a dowel, acts as a shear transfer device between concrete slabs. In addition, GFRP dowel bars are electromagnetically transparent, lightweight compared to steel, and non-corroding. Dowels covered by this specification shall meet the requirements for geometric, material, mechanical, and physical properties described herein.

1.2Dowel bars produced according to this standard must meet the requirements using the test methods referenced in Table 1. Quality control and acceptance of production lots of dowel bars must meet the requirements using the test methods referenced in Table 2.

1.3The text of this specification references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables) shall not be considered as requirements of the specification.

1.4The following dowel bars are not covered by this specification:

1.5This specification is applicable for either SI (as Specification D8444M) or inch-pound units (as Specification D8444).

1.6The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.7This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.