Title:
Prestressed Concrete Design and Construction of Bridge Elements Using HSSS Corrosion-Resistant Strands
Author(s):
Abdelmounaim Mechaala
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
11/3/2024
Abstract:
The corrosion of carbon steel reinforcement and prestressing strands significantly contributes to the deterioration of concrete structures, posing major challenges for bridge owners. Current market alternatives for corrosion-resistant concrete reinforcement include various types of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP), epoxy-coated steel, galvanized steel, high-chromium steel, and different kinds of stainless steel. High-strength stainless steel (HSSS) strands are a relatively new introduction to the construction industry. Several states have already implemented these strands as prestressing reinforcement in piles for new bridges as demonstration projects. Unlike other alternative materials, HSSS strands do not require special equipment or additional procedures beyond those needed for handling and stressing carbon steel strands. However, a primary concern with HSSS strands in prestressed concrete members is their low ductility due to limited strain at ultimate strength. To address this issue, a comprehensive testing program was developed to fill the gap in existing research and build on previous experimental and analytical efforts. This program aims to ensure that the most appropriate material characterization tests, small-scale and large-scale experiments, construction aspects, and instrumentation are utilized to collect the necessary data for selecting, calibrating, or refining design and construction provisions. The results from this program, which will be presented in detail, demonstrate satisfactory performance and align with the objectives of this study.