Special Features of Material and Structure in the Application of UHPC for Bridge Construction exemplified by three Pilot Projects

Special Features of Material and Structure in the Application of UHPC for Bridge Construction exemplified by three Pilot Projects Since 1997 nearly 30 bridges have been built worldwide using UHPC (Ultra High Performance Concrete). Due to the high performance of UHPC, especially owing to its strength and durability properties, this material is predestined for engineering structures and as a result also for bridges. Common design philosophies in concrete construction can not easily be adapted to this new material. The consistent incorporation of the properties and special features of this new material as well as the demands for sustainability lead to filigree, flexible and modular buildings. Therefore the design philosophy can be classified between concrete and steel constructions. Considering the complete life-cycle costs, such constructions permit economical buildings with an eminent benefit for the national economy. After general consideration, the special properties and the new insights gained are exemplified based on experiences during construction, dimensioning and implementation of three different pilot projects in Austria.