Ultra-High Performance Concrete

 

The Portland Cement Association states that, “Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC), also known as reactive powder concrete (RPC), is a high-strength, ductile material formulated by combining portland cement, silica fume, quartz flour, fine silica sand, high-range water reducer, water, and steel or organic fibers. The material provides compressive strengths up to 29,000 pounds per square inch (psi) and flexural strengths up to 7,000 psi.”  There is no large aggregate used in this type of concrete, and without the reinforcing steel, the UHPC can be self-placing or dry cast. 

UHPC was first commercially available in the U.S. in 2000.  Since then the Federal Highway Administration has been doing research on using UHPC for highway infrastructure.  They also are studying the viability of UHPC for bridge applications such as precast, prestressed girders; precast waffle panels for bridge decks; and as a jointing material between precast concrete deck panels and girders and between the flanges of adjacent girders.

Around the world countries are conducting extensive research on UHPC advancements and technologies.  As a means to share information, the 1^st International Interactive Symposium on Ultra-High Performance Concrete will be held at the University of Connecticut in November, 2015.  The theme of the symposium is “UHPC unites” and the goal of the conference is to share knowledge and experience of UHPC material and structural design to enhance the advancement of this exciting, emerging technology.  In addition it will provide an opportunity for the industry to present recent UHPC endeavors and innovations. 

Some of the topics attendees will participate in pertain to the latest developments in UHPC material and structural design and emphasize “enhanced performance, sustainability, durability, resiliency and cost-efficiency.” Workshops will also deal with material characterization methods adapted to UHPC along with small and large scale applications.  Currently the symposium is looking for papers. 

Sources:

cement.org/for-concrete-books-learning/concrete-technology/concrete-design-production/ultra-high-performance-concrete
fhwa.dot.gov/publications/research/infrastructure/structures/hpc/13060/13060.pdf
facebook.com/AmericanConcreteInstitute/photos/a.88211419901.82498.79308249901/10152694742484902/?type=1&theater

Conco is a leading supplier of concrete services for the Western United States. We got our start in the Bay Area in 1959 by offering clients the best value on a wide range of concrete services and products.  Since that time, we have taken a leading role as one of the top concrete contractors in the region. We have four regional offices serving California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada and Colorado.