Link to Latest Report : Coming Soon.
Background :
Integrating additive construction (3D printing) with segmental construction methods has the potential to leverage the strengths of both technologies. Such integration offers several significant advantages including design flexibility, efficiency and speed, cost savings, and sustainability. However, the challenge with integrating these two innovative techniques is the bonding agent used to connect the segments together. This material must be robust to ensure proper bonding.
Segmental bridge construction relies on effective bonding materials to maintain structural integrity. Traditional grout, while commonly used, may not provide the desired flexibility and durability needed for long-term performance. Polymer concrete offers a promising alternative with enhanced bonding strength and adaptability under load. This research addresses the gap in understanding the performance of polymer concrete in segmental bridge applications.
Objectives :
The primary objective of this project is to evaluate the effectiveness of polymer concrete (PC) as a bonding agent in segmental bridge construction, comparing its performance to traditional grout. While grout is commonly used, polymer concrete offers a more flexible and potentially more durable alternative. This study aims to assess how different PC formulations can enhance structural integrity, improve load distribution, increase resistance to environmental factors, and reduce long-term maintenance requirements.
Scope :
Task 1 – Material Properties.
The first task focuses on characterizing the mechanical properties of traditional grout and polymer concrete to establish a baseline understanding of their bonding strength, stiffness, and flexibility. These properties are critical in segmental bridge models as they determine the material’s ability to absorb stress and prevent deformation under loading conditions.
Task 2 – Construction and Load Testing.
Using the same bridge design tested in previous studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, five segmental bridge specimens will be assembled. These will be constructed with 3D-printed T- and L-shaped segments and bonded using different materials: traditional grout and four types of polymer concrete.
Each specimen will be subjected to identical reverse cyclic loading conditions to compare structural performance, focusing on:
- Load-bearing capacity – The ability of each bonding agent to distribute applied loads.
- Elasticity – How well the bonded segments recover from applied stress.
- Resistance to permanent deformation – The long-term durability of each bonding agent under cyclic loads.
The test setup will follow the configuration used in prior studies.
Task 3 – Analysis and Recommendations.
Following load testing, the collected data will be analyzed to evaluate the performance of each bonding agent in segmental bridge models. Key focus areas will include:
- Load distribution – How evenly forces are transferred across segments.
- Permanent deformation – The extent of irreversible displacement in the structure.
- Resilience – The material’s ability to withstand cyclic loading without significant degradation.
The results will determine the potential of polymer concrete for enhancing the longevity and maintenance requirements of segmental construction. Insights gained will support recommendations for selecting bonding materials that optimize durability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in modern bridge design.
Task 4 – Technical Report Dissemination.
A comprehensive technical report will be developed to document the study’s findings. The report will include:
- Study objectives and background.
- Material properties.
- Experimental setup and testing procedures.
- Results and data analysis, supported by visual representations.
- Final recommendations on optimal bonding agents for segmental bridge construction.
This report will serve as a valuable resource for engineers and researchers, providing practical insights into the application of polymer concrete in segmental bridge construction.
Research Team
Principal Investigator : Sherif Elfass, Ph.D.
Co- Principal Investigator : Mohamed Moustafa, Ph.D.