Ultra-High-Performance Concrete Bridge Deck Reinforced with High-Strength Steel

There is currently a need to develop lightweight bridge deck systems with solid riding surfaces to replace the open-grid steel decks from moveable bridges. Open-grid steel decks present several problems, including poor rideability, high noise levels, susceptibility to fatigue damage, and high maintenance costs. There is a great opportunity to use advanced materials, such as ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), to develop new lightweight bridge deck systems. In this study, a low-profile UHPC deck system has been developed that satisfies the strength and serviceability requirements, addresses the concerns with open-grid steel decks, and meets the strict self-weight requirements for moveable bridges. The detailed experimental study shows that the proposed system has great potential to serve as an alternative to open-grid steel decks. Shear was the governing mode of failure in most of the specimens; however, it was not as abrupt and catastrophic as the commonly seen shear failure mode. Standard 180-degree hooks on both ends of the flexural reinforcement help avoid bond failure. The establishment of the development length of high-strength steel for UHPC, deck-deck connection, deck-girder connection, and fatigue performance still need to be investigated before the system is ready for implementation