Title: Flexural behavior and analysis
of prestressed ultra-high-performance
concrete beams made from
locally available materials
Date Published: November - December 2018
Volume: 63
Issue: 6
Page Numbers: 66 - 80
Authors: Andrew J. Giesler, Michael J. McGinnis, and Brad D. Weldon
https://doi.org/10.15554/pcij63.6-02
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Abstract
Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is a cementitious
material with a dense microstructure. This
contributes to high compressive strengths, as well as
enhanced durability properties resulting in improved,
sustainable construction. The material also possesses
significant postcracking strength and ductility due
to the addition of steel fibers. These characteristics
produce a material that provides advantages over
conventional concrete; however, the high costs of
materials and production, lack of industry familiarity,
and absence of standardized design procedures have
impeded its widespread use.
Producing UHPC with locally available materials
creates a more economical product. This research
focused on the design, flexural testing, and analysis
of three large-scale prestressed beams using UHPC
mixture proportions developed with materials local to
the state of New Mexico. Parameters varied among the
prestressed specimens and included the removal of all
mild steel reinforcement and the effect of a composite
cast-in-place concrete deck. Experimental strengths
were compared to design strengths according to the
American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials’ AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design
Specifications