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    <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
    <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    <atom:link href="https://rip.trb.org/Record/RSS?s=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" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
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    <language>en-us</language>
    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
    <image>
      <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
      <url>https://rip.trb.org/Images/PageHeader-wTitle-RIP.jpg</url>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>Abrasion Resistance Comparison Wearing Surfaces</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2780489</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project will evaluate and compare the abrasion resistance of Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC), Polyester Polymer Concrete (PPC), and standard concrete mixtures used for bridge wearing surfaces. Laboratory testing will be conducted using ASTM C944 and other applicable methods to compare material performance and assess current testing procedures. The results will be used to develop recommendations for abrasion resistance requirements and testing procedures to support ITD specifications and ensure adequate durability of concrete materials.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 15:58:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2780489</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Conventional and Ultra-High Performance Concretes for Transportation Infrastructure using Limestone-Calcined Clay Cements (LC3)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2692308</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project evaluates the use of limestone calcined clay cement (LC3), a new type of hybrid blended cement, with potential energy, environmental, and economic benefits in addition to performance enhancement, in transportation infrastructure applications (highway concrete and bridge decks/connections). Specifically, the use of LC3 with 35-50% lower clinker content, is explored as a drop-in replacement for conventional Type I/II ordinary portland cement (OPC) or Portland limestone cement (PLC, Type IL) for conventional (compressive strengths in the 4000-8000 psi range) and ultra-high-performance concretes (UHPC; compressive strengths of ~25,000 psi).  LC3 uses calcined clays (even low purity clays, which are abundant in many parts of the world), which react pozzolanically in a cementitious system to form secondary hydration products, thereby resulting in cement replacement. In this project, the influence of calcined clays (synthesized by Ash Grove Cement, and used in the formulation of their LC3 cements) will be evaluated with respect to reactivity in cement-based systems, and the development of hydration products and pore structure. Conventional concretes and UHPCs will be proportioned using LC3 cements. The influence of 35-50% clinker replacement on the mechanical and durability properties of conventional concretes and UHPCs will be evaluated. A few concrete mixtures will be chosen to be recommended to transportation agencies based on performance and a detailed life cycle cost analysis will be carried out. It is anticipated that this work will lead to a better understanding of economical and high-performance low clinker content concretes, which are critical towards improving the durability and extending the life of transportation infrastructure.  ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:49:03 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2692308</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Use of Nanomaterials to Enhance HPC and UHPC for Ready-Mix and Precast/Prestressed Infrastructure Applications</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2752277</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The aim of this project is to develop and scale up engineered high performance concrete (HPC) and ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) with enhanced mechanical properties and adaptive rheology for ready-mix and precast/prestressed concrete infrastructure. The joint research framework between the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) and Missouri University of Science and Technology (S&T) focuses on enhancing the bulk properties of engineered concrete by fine-tuning nano- and micro- scale properties of the cementitious matrix using multi-dimensional carbon- and cellulose-based nanomaterials UTA’s research team will lead the development of strain-resilient HPC and UHPC with enhanced structural build-up, increased modulus and first-crack strength, and improved strain-hardening response. This will be achieved by redefining the structure–property relationships of the cementitious matrix using cement-compatible, liquid-based graphitic enhancers formulated with highly dispersed carbon nanotubes (CNTs), cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and exfoliated few-layer Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs). Complementary research at S&T will advance HPC and UHPC properties through cellulose nanofibril and nanocrystal systems aimed at improving mixture rheology, viscoelastic behavior, and early-age mechanical performance. Together, the project will establish property benchmarks for engineered HPC and UHPC that exceed performance targets by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA), and the American Concrete Institute (ACI), creating a scalable pathway for high-performance concrete in ready-mix and precast/prestressed applications.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 15:32:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2752277</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Integrating Concrete 3D-Printing and UHPC Spray Techniques for Improved Structural Performance</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2745082</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Concrete 3D printing has gained rapid momentum as an emerging construction
method offering reduced labor, faster construction, enhanced design flexibility,
and minimal formwork requirements. However, its broader adoption in structural
and bridge applications remains limited due to inherent weaknesses, including
insufficient interlayer bonding, lack of conventional reinforcement, and early-age
shrinkage cracking. These limitations reduce durability and restrict the load-carrying capacity of 3D-printed elements. Currently, Innovative Bridge Technologies/Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (IBT/ABC-UTC) at Florida International University (FIU) has pioneered the development and successful field deployment of pneumatic spray
technology for ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). This technique provides
high-quality, rapid, and cost-effective strengthening solutions for deteriorated or
deficient bridge components. Recent full-scale demonstrations have shown that
sprayed UHPC can deliver superior bonding, enhanced toughness, and substantial
improvements in structural performance. Despite the individual advancements of
concrete 3D printing and UHPC spray technology, their integration remains largely
unexplored. This project aims to evaluate the feasibility of using pneumatically
sprayed UHPC as an external reinforcement layer for 3D-printed concrete
components. The research will: (1) quantify the interfacial bond strength between
sprayed UHPC and 3D-printed substrates; (2) assess structural enhancements
through flexural strength, ductility, and post-cracking performance; and (3)
investigate improvements in durability, including resistance to chloride
penetration and freeze-thaw deterioration. The findings will provide foundational
knowledge for advancing a hybrid construction approach that merges concrete 3D
printing with sprayable UHPC. The expected outcomes will support the
development of practical guidelines, promote adoption in bridge infrastructure,
and enable future field-scale validation studies.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:26:00 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2745082</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis and Verification of Link Slab Practices for Jointless Bridge Decks in Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2744923</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Bridge deck expansion joints are among the most maintenance-intensive
components of highway bridges, often leading to premature deterioration,
increased repair costs, and reduced service life. Link slabs provide an effective
alternative by enabling jointless deck configurations, improving durability, and
reducing long-term maintenance demands. Despite their proven benefits,
inconsistencies in design methodologies particularly regarding the need for deck
debonding and the use of advanced materials such as Ultra-High-Performance
Concrete (UHPC) have limited their broader adoption in Accelerated Bridge
Construction (ABC) applications. Early studies recommended partial debonding
near girder ends, while more recent large-scale investigations, such as SHRP2
R19A, concluded that debonding may not be required. At the same time, UHPC-based link slabs have demonstrated excellent crack control and durability, yet
remain without standardized design guidance. This project aims to synthesize
existing research, field applications, state DOT practices, and emerging material
innovations to establish practical best practices for link slab design. To this end,
the current study will (1) compile and evaluate past research and
implementations, (2) compare conventional and UHPC-based link slab
approaches, (3) conduct analytical and limited experimental verification to resolve
conflicting recommendations, and (4) develop design provisions and example
details suitable for ABC applications. The proposed work will produce a
comprehensive synthesis report, validated guidance, and actionable
recommendations for DOTs and practitioners. By clarifying design assumptions,
addressing uncertainties in debonding requirements, and evaluating the role of
UHPC, this study will promote the consistent and reliable use of link slabs in
jointless bridge decks.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:21:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2744923</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>UHPC Roadmap: Advancing the Use of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) in Bridge Applications ​ ​</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712044</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In the early 2000s, a new class of cementitious materials—known as Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC)—emerged. UHPC is a highly durable material characterized by low or discontinuous porosity, which significantly reduces water and chemical ingress. These properties help mitigate concrete deterioration, thereby supporting the FHWA’s goal to “Get in, Get out, and Stay out” in bridge construction and lowering maintenance costs.

With support from the Iowa Highway Research Board (IHRB) and the Iowa DOT, several projects have explored the application of UHPC in various bridge components over the past two decades. These applications include girders, waffle decks, piles, and deck overlays. Additionally, UHPC has been used to connect prefabricated elements and to repair damaged structural members.

Recognizing the significant potential of UHPC in both the rehabilitation of existing bridges and the design of new bridges in the United States—and building on its involvement in earlier projects—a group of interested individuals came together to establish an organization that would bring together academia, government agencies, and industry to promote the use of UHPC in bridge applications. Following the 2019 UHPC International Symposium, an initiative to advance the understanding and application of UHPC was launched at Iowa State University. This initiative, known as the UHPC Initiative (or UHPCi), is dedicated to advancing UHPC for civil infrastructure by supporting both fundamental and applied research. It also maintains an active program of knowledge and technology transfer among academic institutions and partner organizations. The mission of UHPCi is to provide a collaborative forum that fosters the sharing of knowledge and promotes research, innovation, and the development of specifications to increase the understanding and use of UHPC.

Despite the progress achieved, further work is needed to advance the use of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) in bridge applications. Key areas for advancement include identifying the most suitable applications, reducing material and construction costs, and enhancing bridge longevity with minimal maintenance. Recent inspections conducted by both the Iowa DOT and personnel on past UHPC projects have revealed some concerns, which should also be investigated as part of this ongoing effort. A persistent challenge is the high cost of UHPC. Promising strategies to address this include reducing the metallic fiber content or partially substituting metallic fibers with non-metallic alternatives. These approaches could be explored on an application-specific basis to optimize performance and cost-effectiveness.

Given the aforementioned challenges and opportunities, this pooled fund project—conducted in collaboration with the UHPCi—aims to consolidate current knowledge and develop a strategic roadmap to enhance the use of UHPC in both bridge rehabilitation and new bridge construction. The effort will focus on identifying the most promising applications (e.g., bridge decks), where UHPC can offer the greatest impact.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:32:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712044</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Implementation of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) Bridge Deck Overlays in Nebraska</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2689406</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Project SPR-FY24(034) confirmed the superior mechanical and durability performance of Nebraska’s non-proprietary ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) mixtures, field implementation remains a critical missing step. Bridge deck overlays require substantially larger material volumes and longer placement durations than typical UHPC applications, such as joint connections or patch repairs. These factors introduce challenges in production logistics, equipment capacity, and quality control that must be validated under real construction conditions. Currently, NDOT and local contractors lack documented field procedures and specifications tailored to Nebraska’s climate, materials, and construction practices. Key uncertainties remain regarding surface preparation methods (e.g., milling versus hydrodemolition), on-site batching and mixing of large quantity using truck mixers, placement sequencing, construction joints, finishing, curing, and early-age strength verification. Without full-scale field demonstration and training, these unknowns limit NDOT’s ability to specify UHPC overlays in new or rehabilitation bridge projects. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 12:25:59 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2689406</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Evaluation of Hollow-Core UHPC-Steel Columns with UHPC Socketed Connection
</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2696153</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Limited techniques are available to accelerate construction of bridge substructures. Previous research was conducted by the research team on innovative hollow-core FRP-concrete-steel (HC-FCS) bridge columns consisting of an ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) or self-consolidating concrete (SCC) core sandwiched between an outer fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) tube and an inner steel tube. The results of these previous projects indicated the proposed column design had significant potential, but lingering questions remained about the possibility of eliminating the FRP outer shell and relying on UHPC to provide required confinement of the steel tube and durability of the overall column. The proposed project will build on the results of the previously funded projects on HC-FCS columns sponsored by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) and ABC-UTC to extend to UHPC-steel (HC-US) columns and to examine unanswered questions relative to column composition, UHPC thickness, and column-footing connection. The project will consist of experimental testing of four approximately half-scale column and footing specimens with variation in steel wall thickness and column to footing connection type. Results from the proposed research will provide an improved basis for comparison with completed finite element modeling and for subsequent design guidelines, thereby increasing the likelihood of implementation. The final report will include a section with guidance for design and construction of the proposed HC-US columns. These guidelines will include equations to determine steel thickness, UHPC thickness, footing and girder embedment depths, and nominal flexural and shear strengths of HC-US columns.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:42:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2696153</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Full-Scale Performance Evaluation of a Modular, Lightweight, UHPC Panel System for Repair of Corrosion-Damaged Steel H-Piles</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2695941</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project directly supports the mission of the Center for Healthy and Durable Transportation (CHDT) by advancing innovative, implementable solutions to extend the service life of aging bridge infrastructure. The research focuses on developing and validating a modular, lightweight ultra-high-performance concrete panel system (UHPC-PS) for rehabilitating corrosion-damaged steel H-piles—critical substructure elements in United States bridges. By integrating advanced materials such as fiber-reinforced UHPC and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) grids with practical field deployment strategies and full-scale performance validation under realistic service and seismic loading, the project enhances infrastructure durability, constructibility, long-term performance, and public safety, directly benefiting transportation agencies.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:26:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2695941</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Developing a Roadmap for Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2684169</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The objectives of this pooled fund study are to: (1) Facilitate communication and information sharing among member states on the project topic, as well as with participants of the Fourth International Interactive Symposium on Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC). (2) Establish a forum for technology and knowledge exchange to enhance the practical understanding of UHPC implementation among member states. (3) Develop a strategic roadmap for future UHPC use and advancements, including the identification of research needs and the formulation of research ideas to be pursued through NCHRP, Pooled Funds, grants and other funding mechanisms.

The anticipated benefits of this pooled fund are: (1) Minimized disruption to the traveling public by reducing the frequency and duration of bridge deck repairs. (2) Lower maintenance costs resulting from the enhanced durability and performance of UHPC wearing surfaces. (3) Improved worker safety through reduced exposure to on-site repair activities due to less frequent maintenance needs.

The participating state departments of transportation (DOTs) will provide input throughout the project and benefit from shared insights into technologies used to date, as well as lessons learned from past projects across various regions. Additionally, they will gain exposure to the latest advancements to be presented at the Fourth International Interactive Symposium on UHPC, which will cover topics including UHPC material innovations, recent applications, and the long-term performance of UHPC-designed structures. Pooled fund participants will attend the symposium free of charge.


]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:07:45 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2684169</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Ultra-high performance concrete composite decks for long-span coastal bridges (OSU)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2663233</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Coastal and marine environments present some of the most aggressive conditions for bridges, due to exposure to salt spray, high humidity, chloride ingress, and cyclic wet-dry cycles. Many of the nation’s longest span bridges are in and around tightly constrained coastal regions and these bridges commonly employ orthotropic steel decks (OSD) to reduce dead weight and improve structural efficiency. Conventional orthotropic steel plate decks are vulnerable to fatigue cracks in welded joints, deck plate corrosion, and deterioration of overlays under harsh environmental loading. Many of these OSDs are failing well short of their intended design lives. To overcome these limitations, this project will develop and validate a novel UHPC-composite steel rib deck system as a replacement for conventional OSDs for long-span bridges. Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) offers high compressive strength, ductility, low permeability, and durability. We propose to make relatively thin UHPC slabs composite with strategically embedded structural steel ribs to produce a direct replacement for conventional OSDs but with reduced weight, equivalent or better stiffness and load carrying capacity while mitigating past persistent fatigue and corrosion issues. 

The research consists of four (4) phases. First, conceptual design and modeling: we will create analytical and finite element models of composite deck panels, varying parameters such as rib geometry, spacing, shear connectors, UHPC thickness, and interface behavior. Second, fabrication and laboratory testing of prototype panels that will be constructed and tested under repeated load cycles modelling wheel loads on the deck surface, environmental (freeze/thaw, chloride exposure), and static failure tests to measure structural performance characteristics including stiffness, crack patterns, fatigue life, and ultimate capacity. Third, interface and connection optimization where shear connections between the UHPC and steel ribs will be optimized to produce reliable composite action and minimal slip under repeated loading. Fourth, develop design guidelines using test data to produce simplified design rules and apply the system concept to a real long-span bridge as a case study.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:05:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2663233</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Evaluation of UHPC Shell Stay-in-Place Formwork and BCSA Cement Concrete Prestressed Girders</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2646949</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Precast prestressed bridge girders are used for a large percentage of bridges in the United States. These bridges are susceptible to deterioration at the supports due to leaking expansion joints and end region cracking caused by high stresses at the beam ends. This project will evaluate the feasibility and structural performance of a hybrid precast, prestressed concrete girder system that utilizes an ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) shell stay-in-place formwork or end region insert and rapid setting belitic calcium sulfoaluminate (BCSA) cement concrete. UHPC is a relatively recent advancement in cementitious composite materials with mechanical and durability properties far exceeding those of conventional concrete. This research is intended to address the concern of end region durability by encapsulating the girder concrete with a nearly impermeable layer of UHPC that is also resistant to cracking. The rapid setting of BCSA cement concrete and use of stay-in-place forms can increase the speed of production of the prestressed girders and BCSA cement concrete has reduced prestress losses over time.  

The research will consist of evaluating small-scale behavior of composite UHPC shell and BCSA cement concrete compression and flexural elements, and construction and testing of large-scale prestressed beam elements. The objectives of the project are to evaluate the feasibility of using rapid setting BCSA cement concrete in conjunction with a UHPC shell for prestressed concrete elements, determine flexure and shear failure mechanisms and associated capacity for composite UHPC shell elements, and develop effective interface details for the UHPC shell to BCSA cement concrete. This work will be conducted through a series of five tasks. Task 1 will evaluate the surface preparation and deformation compatibility using small-scale testing. Task 2 will consist of the design of prestressed beam specimens using different shell surface preparations and locations along the beam. Task 3 will consist of prestressed beam specimen construction. Task 4 will include flexural and shear testing of the prestressed beam elements. Task 5 will consist of preparing reports and disseminating the project information. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:02:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2646949</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Rehabilitation of Deteriorated Timber Piles Using Ultra High Performance Concrete </title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2646939</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The proposed research focuses on rehabilitating deteriorated timber piles using Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) to extend the service life of aging bridge infrastructure commonly found across rural Louisiana. Timber piles are increasingly affected by environmental and biological degradation, particularly at wet-dry interface zones, as well as physical damage from floating debris, excessive loading, and failure of adjacent piles. Full replacement of the piles is often economically unfeasible, making an effective rehabilitation solution essential due to its lower cost, reduced material usage, and minimal disruption to service.  

This project will develop a novel UHPC-based rehabilitation strategy specifically tailored for deteriorated timber piles, with the goal of restoring structural performance, enhancing durability, and enabling practical field implementation. A key technical contribution lies in the development and experimental validation of an effective composite interface between timber and UHPC. Through targeted small-scale experiments, the bond and shear transfer mechanisms at the timber-UHPC interface will be quantified, and optimal surface preparation techniques will be identified to maximize bond performance, an area currently lacking standardized guidance. Large-scale experimental testing will generate a comprehensive dataset on the structural performance of deteriorated timber piles strengthened with UHPC jackets, evaluating the effectiveness of different rehabilitation configurations. These tests will assess critical performance parameters such as axial load-carrying capacity, stiffness recovery, and failure modes, under conditions that simulate field-relevant deterioration.  

Complementing the experimental work, advanced finite element modeling will be developed and validated against the experimental findings. This model will capture the complex interaction between timber and UHPC under service conditions and will serve as a predictive tool for evaluating the efficacy of different rehabilitation configurations. Through a comprehensive parametric study, the model will be used to investigate the influence of key design variables. The findings from both experimental and numerical investigations will provide valuable insights into the structural enhancement achievable through UHPC rehabilitation and will significantly advance current practice by development of practical design guidelines and recommendations. This work will promote the adoption of UHPC as durable, high-performance solutions for extending the service life of aging timber piles in transportation and waterfront infrastructure. 

Consultation with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) will guide the research direction and assist in planning future in-field applications. By delivering a scalable, effective, and economically viable rehabilitation strategy, this research directly supports the mission of the Southern Plains Transportation Center (SPTC) and aligns with the USDOT’s statutory priority of improving the durability and extending the service life of transportation infrastructure. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 22:38:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2646939</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Development Of Ultra High performance Concrete With Low-Density Flexible Fibers For Bridge Applications</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2633323</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) for bridge elements, repair materials, and other applications often contains 2 % to 3 % by volume of steel fibers to impart resistance to plastic shrinkage, improve its resistance to abrasion and impacts, and to provide additional strength and fracture toughness. However, steel fibers are much heavier than organic fibers such as polypropylene (PP) or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), while their stiffness and tensile strength are only modestly greater. UHPC for bridge elements could be made with a lower density and potentially higher strength-to-weight ratio if it could be reliably made with PP or PVA fibers instead of steel. PP and PVA fibers have the additional advantage that they are not susceptible to corrosion, are inert in alkaline environments, have negligible water absorption, impart greater impact resistance and abrasion resistance, and contribute less to greenhouse gas emissions than their steel counterparts. The objective is to determine the compressive strength, fracture toughness, and strength-to-weight ratios of chemically pretreated PP-reinforced UHPC as a function of PP dosage. The property variations with these variables will be linked to fiber dispersion and macro flaws using lab-scale X-ray microcomputed tomography (µCT).]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:26:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2633323</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Low-Carbon Ultra High-Performance Concrete for Use in Highway Infrastructure</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2593948</link>
      <description><![CDATA[As the State of Oregon seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and phase in lower-carbon materials, low-carbon ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is an advanced construction material that offers new opportunities for the future of highway infrastructure. The use of conventional UHPC is reported to eliminate the cracking and leakage that occurs when normal strength concretes or grouts are used, especially in existing bridges constructed with welded / grouted keys that have shown poor performance (Stanton and Khaleghi, 2020; Peruchini et al. 2021). At the same time, the use of conventional UHPC can enable the deployment of simplified connection details with shorter discrete reinforcement splice lengths and a reduced number of conflict points, which are beneficial for both new bridge construction and repair, retrofit, or rehabilitation of existing bridges. However, proprietary UHPC solutions are costly, and thus there is increasing interest in developing non-proprietary UHPC mixtures. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) conventional UHPC research and development program has produced a range of publications on the performance and use of UHPC. This includes the recently developed FHWA 13100 Technical Brief, which includes minimum requirements for non-proprietary UHPCs. However, the research performed by FHWA has so far not addressed the use of low-carbon materials. On the other hand, research has shown success in implementing low-carbon solutions for normal strength concretes by reducing Portland cement content by 15%. To date, limited to no research exists regarding development of low-carbon UHPCs (LCUHPCs) for bridge applications. Thus, the lack of non-proprietary LCUHPC mixture designs, lack of non-proprietary, on-site mixing methods and equipment, and absence of general QA/QC, are gaps that need to be addressed to allow the State of Oregon to meet their phased implementation of resilient, lower carbon materials.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2025 11:57:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2593948</guid>
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