Development of Non-Proprietary Ultra-High Performance Concrete for Use in the Highway Bridge Sector

摘要

The goal of this research is to facilitate the use of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) among U.S. suppliers and contractors and thereby not only accelerate its application in U.S. construction but also promote a more resilient and sustainable future U.S. infrastructure. In pursuit of this goal this research focuses on the development of cost effective non-proprietary ultra-high performance concretes for the use in the highway bridge sector. A good balance between workability, mechanical performance, durability and cost effectiveness is sought in this research to reach a broad acceptance of the concrete in the U.S. construction market. Thereby, the use of local materials is a necessity for the success of this material. Three regions are emphasized as follows; the New York, Connecticut, New Jersey area; the Upper Midwest in the vicinity of Iowa, Minnesota, and Michigan; and the Northwest in the vicinity of Washington and Oregon. Ultra-high performance pastes, matrices and composites are progressively optimized in their performance and cost effectiveness. Recommendations for cost effective UHPC are made and conclusions for further enhancements are drawn.