Bridges

UHPC in Non-Prestressed Reinforced Concrete (RC) Continuous Girder Sections for Bridge Elements

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Abstract

Research was being conducted to evaluate the use of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) versus high strength self-consolidating concrete (HS-SCC) in end girder connections of bridges. With its high compressive and tensile strengths, durability and chemical resistance, UHPC can be used to reduce high transfer stresses. The test matrix in this investigation consisted of two beams connected with a cold joint, a 6-in. (152 mm) wide joint cast using UHPC versus a more traditional HS-SCC and a monolithically casted control for reference. The flexural performance of the joint under four point loading with a high flexural moment was evaluated. The additional variables include: rebar detailing (straight lap) within the joints, the effect of surface preparation (i.e., smooth, roughened, and sand blasted) within the beam interface where the joint was to be developed, and yielding of reinforcement in the joint casted with UHPC versus HS-SCC. Favorable findings would accelerate the use of UHPC on a larger scale and will allow for the use of smaller joint widths, the use of longer spans for bridge girders, and the use of different detailing to help reduce the transfer stresses.

Keywords: high-strength concrete, joints, rebar detailing, surface preparation, bridge end-girder-connections

How to Cite:

Myers, J. J. & Rallabhandhi, S., (2016) “UHPC in Non-Prestressed Reinforced Concrete (RC) Continuous Girder Sections for Bridge Elements”, International Interactive Symposium on Ultra-High Performance Concrete 1(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.21838/uhpc.2016.90