Stretching the Envelope with UHPC

UHPC, a novel material, is most misunderstood and hence limited in use until now. This is changing. UHPC is not there to replace concrete but to complement it. In fact, normal concrete has never had a friend as good as UHPC. This presentation sheds light on envisioning UHPC as a measure to stretch the limits of conventional wisdom. With extraordinary durability and mechanical characteristics, UHPC can push the durability boundaries of normal concrete making it more sustainable while decreasing its life cycle cost. Application of UHPC overlay over bridge decks, use of UHPC formworks that integrally bind with the main structural member, UHPC link slabs at expansion joints, use of UHPC in joining RC precast elements, UHPC at girder ends or anchorage zones, spraying of UHPC below bridge decks, Repair and Strengthening of existing RC structures – these are few ways in which UHPC lends extraordinary support to normal concrete. UHPC can make engineers think outside of the box. There is more to UHPC than what meets the eye. Stretching the envelope is the need of the day!