Feasibility of Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) as Joint Material for Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC)
Advancements in manufacturing methods and the growing demand for high-strength materials in reinforced concrete have led to the development of steel reinforcing bars with strengths exceeding 100 ksi. These ultra-high-strength bars hold significant promise for bridge construction, as they could extend feasible span lengths beyond those achievable with conventional reinforcement while still meeting strength and serviceability requirements. Their use can also reduce girder depth, leading to material savings and lower overall construction costs. However, successful implementation requires addressing key concerns regarding serviceability and durability. Critical factors include corrosion resistance, structural behavior, and ductility of beams reinforced with these high-strength bars. The primary objective of the proposed work is to investigate the durability (corrosion resistance) and serviceability of concrete girders reinforced with very high-strength reinforcement, by testing bond-slip relationship between corroded and non-corroded steel rebars and concrete. 12 medium-span (8 in x 12 in x 10 ft) concrete beams will be cast and tested for strength and ductility. Six of the 12 beams will be subjected to accelerated corrosion. Under controlled conditions, the research team will test the strength and ductility characteristics of the beams reinforced with these bars. This study directly supports the mission of the Center for Healthy and Durable Transportation (CHDT), a University Transportation Center (UTC), whose primary research focus is enhancing the durability and service life of transportation infrastructure through innovative construction materials and techniques. By addressing the performance of very high-strength reinforcing bars in reinforced concrete girders and their behavior under corrosive conditions, this project advances the application of durable, next-generation materials for transportation infrastructure.
Language
- English
Project
- Status: Active
- Funding: $45,037.00
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Contract Numbers:
69A3552348335
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Sponsor Organizations:
Department of Transportation
Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC United States 20590 -
Managing Organizations:
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology
University Transportation Centers Program
Department of Transportation
Washington, DC United States 20590 -
Performing Organizations:
Center for Healthy and Durable Transportation
University of Missouri Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri United States 64110 -
Principal Investigators:
Choi, Youngmae
- Start Date: 20260101
- Expected Completion Date: 20261231
- Actual Completion Date: 0
- USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Accelerated bridge construction; Beams; Corrosion tests; Durability; Girders; Reinforcing bars; Reinforcing steel; Serviceability
- Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Highways; Materials;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01986488
- Record Type: Research project
- Source Agency: Center for Healthy and Durable Transportation
- Contract Numbers: 69A3552348335
- Files: UTC, RIP
- Created Date: Apr 21 2026 1:16PM