| Project Title | Mitigating Cracking in Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) Bridge Connections |
| University | University of Delaware Pennsylvania State University |
| Principal Investigator(s) | PI: Jovan Tatar, University of Delaware Co-PI: Farshad Rajabipour, Penn Stat |
| Funding Source(s) and Amounts Provided (by each agency or organization) | University of Delaware Federal Share: $114,656 University of Delaware Match Share: $114,798 Penn State Federal Share: $32,912 Penn State Match Share: $32,944 |
| Total Project Cost | $295,310 |
| Start and End Dates | 03/08/2021 - 06/30/2024 |
| Brief Description of Research Project | In the proposed project, we are joining expertise in concrete mechanics (Tatar) and concrete durability (Rajabipour) to (1) develop and investigate 3D-printed formwork liners for repeatable surface-texturing of NC substrate in the connection region to enhance mechanical bond strength between UHPC and NC; and (2) investigate methods of reducing shrinkage in UHPC to mitigate interfacial and cohesive cracking. The findings from this work will improve the reliability of bridges constructed utilizing ABC techniques. The project, therefore, contributes to improved durability and extended life of transportation infrastructure, one of the primary objectives of CIAMTIS. |