Innovative Bridge Deck Using High Performance Fiber Reinforced Cement Composites

Regents Of The University Of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor MI

Investigators

Abstract

This project aims at developing the basis for an innovative and durable concrete bridge deck, made with high performance fiber reinforced cement composites (HPFRCC) and reinforced with only one layer of bottom rebars (steel or FRP). The HPFRC composite is designed to allow the creation of an effective plastic hinge mechanism, with hinges forming at supports and in spans. It also replaces shrinkage and temperature reinforcements in two directions and reduces crack widths by orders of magnitude, thus leading to an exceptional deck durability. When the bottom reinforcement is prestressed, beneficial secondary moments created at the supports improve overall performance.