What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to evaluate UHPFRC upcycling for improving deficient reinforced concrete structures.

June 21, 2026Open Access

UHPFRC “Upcycling” of Deficient Reinforced Concrete Bridges

Key Points

The aim is to evaluate UHPFRC upcycling for improving deficient reinforced concrete structures.
Examined the application of UHPFRC in strengthening structural elements of bridges.
Focus on cost and environmental benefits as alternatives to demolition-replacement.
Utilized 20 years of application experience from Switzerland for broader insights.
UHPFRC upcycling significantly enhances resistance and durability compared to traditional methods.
Cost savings and reduced environmental impact were noted as key advantages.
Findings support UHPFRC as a preferred method for addressing structural deficiencies.

Abstract

UHPFRC stands for ultra-high-performance fibre-reinforced-cementitious composite material, that is complemented by reinforcing steel bars to form a R-UHPFRC strengthening layer. UHPFRC “upcycling” has the goal to enhance the resistance and durability of deficient structural elements in reinforced concrete. It helps to avoid the still widespread and material- and cost-intensive practice of “demolition-replacement” of deficient reinforced concrete bridges. As UHPFRC “upcycling” often offers significant cost and environmental benefits, it should become the default option when dealing with deficient reinforced concrete bridges. This report is intended to serve for the structural engineering community to profit from the 20-year long application experience in Switzerland to broadly apply this new technology.

Read Full Paperexternally

AI에게 질문

Bookmark

View Full Paper