ACI SP-346 PDF

ACI SP-346 – Field Applications of Non-Conventional Reinforcing and Strengthening Methods for Bridges and Structures

A Sustainable built-environment requires a comprehensive process from material selection through to reliable management. Although traditional materials and methods still dominate the design and construction of our civil infrastructure, nonconventional reinforcing and strengthening methods for concrete bridges and structures can address the functional and economic challenges facing modern society. The use of advanced materials, such as fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) and ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), alleviates the unfavorable aspects of every-day practices, offers many new opportunities, and promotes strategies that will be cost-effective, durable, and readily maintainable. Field demonstration is imperative to validate the innovative concepts and findings of laboratory research. Furthermore, documented case studies add value to the evaluation of emerging and maturing technologies, identify successful applications or aspects needing refinement, and ultimately inspire future endeavors. This Special Publication (SP) contains nine papers selected from three technical sessions held during the virtual ACI Fall Convention of October 2020. The first and second series of papers discuss retrofit and strengthening of super- and substructure members with a variety of techniques; and the remaining papers address new construction of bridges with internal FRP reinforcing and prestressing in beam, slabs, decks and retaining walls. All manuscripts were reviewed by at least two experts in accordance with the ACI publication policy. The Editors wish to thank all contributing authors and anonymous reviewers for their rigorous efforts. The Editors also gratefully acknowledge Ms. Barbara Coleman at ACI for her knowledgeable guidance.