HIGHWAY TECHNET   VIRTUAL EXPO   STRUCTURES INDEX

TE-36 High-Performance Concrete
Evaluating, Showcasing, and Promoting HPC

The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) supported considerable research into high-performance concrete (HPC). As a result of this research, new testing methods have been developed and some existing testing methods have been modified to: 1) determine the validity of existing test methods, 2) give greater uniformity to test results, and 3) give engineers greater confidence in the material properties of high-performance concrete.

The improved criteria and testing methods developed under SHRP for the mechanical properties and behavior of HPC have been refined and are included in a Definition of HPC for highway structures. This definition is being used on bridge projects associated with TE-036. The use of HPC can lead to cost savings through a reduction in girder lines and increased durability, and to improved safety through increased clearances and a reduction in the number of bridge piers. Training and dissemination of information to personnel (governmental and industry) involved in bridge design, concrete mix design and concrete testing is an essential step in the effective use of new field identification procedures, test procedures, and mixture design methods.

This national effort will include seminars, workshops, equipment loan programs, demonstration bridges, and technical assistance to evaluate, showcase, and promote HPC and SHRP research products in high-performance concrete

A national multi-year effort is planned to target a maximum number of interested government and industry engineers and technicians. This effort promotes the use of high-performance concrete through regional showcases, workshops, and industry alliances to transfer technology to a wide audience throughout the United States. HPC is being used in bridges under construction in Colorado, Georgia, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, Texas, Virginia, and Washington. Plans are being made for its use in North Carolina, New Mexico, South Dakota, and Tennessee. Regional showcases have been held in Texas, Nebraska, Virginia, Washington, and New Hampshire. Upcoming showcases include Colorado on February 18-20, 1998, Ohio in the summer/fall 1998, and Alabama on December 7-9, 1998.

Workshops on High-Performance Concrete, technical assistance, speakers, and presentation materials. Please visit our Web site for HPC at hpc.fhwa.dot.gov.
Workshops on High-Performance Concrete, technical assistance, speakers, and presentation materials.



HIGHWAYTECHNET   VIRTUAL EXPO   STRUCTURES INDEX
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration

CLICK FOR INFO


Project Manager
Terry D. Halkyard
HTA-20
(202) 366-6765

Project Coordinator
John M. Hooks
HTA-20
(202) 366-6643