Habib-Joseph Dagher, Ph.D., P.E., University of Maine; 
Ken Sweeney, P.E., MPA, Chief Engineer; Tim Kenerson, P.E., Vice President of Engineering; and Anthony Diba, Design Engineer; Basalt International, Inc.

Presentation Documents:
Intro & News Slides: 
News - Intro Slides May 2025
Presentation Slides: 
May 2025 Presentation Maine Part1
May 2025 Presentation Basalt Int. Part2

Description:
Attendees will gain an understanding of how fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite vehicular bridges can transform the industry.  The use of this innovative composite technology results in enhanced sustainability, accelerated construction timelines, and lower life-cycle costs.  Maine DOT, the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center, and Basalt International have achieved a milestone in engineering innovation with the construction of the longest, FRP composites bridge with a clear span of 95 feet.  This presentation explores the technical advancements behind this bridge structure, including material selection, structural design optimization, and manufacturing techniques that enabled the construction of an ultra-lightweight, high-strength span. Additionally, we will discuss the bridge’s superior durability, resilience to environmental stressors, and long-term cost benefits compared to traditional materials.  Case study data, performance metrics, and lessons learned from the project will provide key insights into future applications of FRP composites in transportation infrastructure.

Presenters:

Habib-Joseph Dagher, Ph.D., P.E.
Executive Director, Advanced Structures and Composites Center
Principal Investigator, New England Aqua Ventus I Project Director,
Transportation Infrastructure Durability Center
BIW Professor of Structural Engineering
The University of Maine

Kenneth L. Sweeney, P.E., MPA
Chief Engineer
Basalt International, LLC
Former Chief Engineer, Maine DOT

Tim Kenerson, P.E.
Vice President of Engineering
Basalt International, Inc.

Anthony Diba
Design Engineer
Basalt International, Inc.

Presentation Graphics:

Image 1 - Grist Mill Bridge in Maine (photo courtesy of The University of Maine)

Image 2 - Composite girder fabrication (photo courtesy of The University of Maine)

Image 3 - Completed section of composite girder.  (Photo courtesy of The University of Maine)

Image 4 - Girder fabrication facility (photo courtesy of Basalt International)

Image 5 - Fabricated Girder (photo courtesy of Basalt International)

Image 6 - Fabrication facility with girder staging (photo courtesy of Basalt International)