DESIGN AND MONITORING OF NON PROPRIETARY UHPC JOINTS OF PRECAST ELEMENTS (FHWA-OK-23-01)

Abstract

This project included collection of UHPC connection details utilized by other states and examination of those details for applicability to use with the OU J3 non-proprietary UHPC, examination of different fiber sources and the effect of those fibers on properties of the OU J3 UHPC mix, consultation on and monitoring of UHPC projects in Oklahoma, and development of materials for using in training ODOT personnel relative to UHPC mix design and construction. UHPC connection details used in several different states were examined for applicability to use in Oklahoma with non-proprietary UHPC. The research team provided input on upcoming and ongoing bridge projects utilizing UHPC and UHPC connections in one ongoing project and several completed projects were monitored throughout the project. The steel fibers used in previous studies on locally developed J3 non-proprietary UHPC are no longer available and mechanical response and durability of J3 UHCP with varying fiber contents of a new source of straight steel microfibers and long hooked-end fibers intended for use in structural applications were measured. A series of PowerPoint presentations providing an introduction to UHPC, description of non-proprietary UHPC mix design, training on UHPC mixing, placement, and testing, and results of research on non-proprietary UHPC were prepared. These presentations were used to conduct two workshops and one free in-depth web training in conjunction with the Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center.