CAIT Seminar Series: BEAST Lab Accelerated Testing of Full-Scale Bridge with UHPC and LMC Overlays (Webinar) - January 19, 2023 - 12:00pm to 1:00pm EST

Description: 

UHPC and LMC overlays are being evaluated at Rutgers’ state-of-the-art Bridge Evaluation and Accelerated Structural Testing (BEAST®) facility, where a full-scale bridge (50 ft. simply-supported span) is being subjected to simulated highway truck traffic and environmental loading. Data is recorded with a wide array of sensors and through periodic surveys using NDE technologies. 

The specimen was subjected to over 3-million passes of rolling load, 100 freeze-thaw cycles, and over 3000 gallons of salt brine. As a result of these inputs, the deck deteriorated to a state that warranted the installation of overlays. Hydro-demolition was first performed to remove the top 2-3 inches of concrete as well as any unsound concrete. Both (ultra-high performance concrete) UHPC and latex-modified concrete (LMC) overlays were installed next to each other on half of the bridge width, thereby permitting comparison of the two chosen overlay types. 

The results from this experiment will help establish the nature and progression of bridge deck deterioration when these types of overlays are used, and even provide quantitative measure of the overlays’ ability to perform (e.g.; reduce chloride ingress, provide structural capacity, maintain bond, provide smooth riding surface, etc.). 

This webinar will provide an update on the overall project and details of the overlay construction.

Learning Objectives: 

1) Learn about innovative overlays (UHPC & LMC) being tested at CAIT's BEAST lab,

2) Understand and analyze bridge-deck deterioration data from the BEAST,

3) Discuss ongoing testing efforts and project details in the lab. 


Credits: 1 Professional Development Hour (PDH)

Presenter: Dr. John Braley, Research Associate, Rutgers CAIT

Fee: None