Allowable Stresses and Resistance Factors for High Strength Concrete

Project Description

High strength concrete is routinely specified for use in prestressed concrete beams in Texas. Design parameters are based on experimental data from normal strength concrete with compressive strength less than 6000 psi. High strength concrete fails in a more brittle fashion than conventional concrete. On the other hand, quality control tends to be better with high strength concrete. Other engineering properties also differ considerably from normal strength concrete. This project included material testing to establish mechanical properties and statistical parameters for high strength concrete produced by precasters in Texas. The researchers evaluated the allowable stresses and resistance factors in the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) specifications and provided guidance for designing high strength prestressed concrete beams. This information enables designers to utilize high strength concrete prestressed girders to their fullest potential, while ensuring a safe design.

Project Publications

Mechanical Properties of High Strength Concrete for Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders 0-2101-2

Impact of Field Exposure Conditions on High Strength Concrete Produced for Prestressed Bridge Girders 0-2101-4

Flexural Design of High Strength Concrete Prestressed Bridge Girders - Review of Current Practice and Parametric Study 0-2101-3

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