High Performance Materials for Concrete Bridge Construction

Precast/prestressed concrete is commonly used in short and medium span bridge construction because its assured quality, inherent durability, and optimized use of materials satisfy the needs of bridge owners. Recent research projects conducted at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) focused on using high performance materials in precast/prestressed concrete bridge girders and deck panels that significantly improve their durability, economics, and speed of construction. This paper discusses the use of High Strength Self-Consolidated Concrete (HSSCC), 18 mm diameter prestressing strands, and Grade 550 high strength welded-wire reinforcement (WWR) to achieve simplicity of production and erection and maximize span-to-depth ratio while being economical. Precast/prestressed concrete girders with span-to-depth ratio of over 30 were developed and tested. The main advantages of these girder are the ease of production, speed of construction, and enhanced durability. A summary of specimen design, production, and tested is presented.