Development of Non-Proprietary UHPC for Florida Precast Applications

The development of non-proprietary ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) mixtures based on locally available materials is of key importance in the deployment of the UHPC technology in the United States. With the development of lower cost, non-proprietary mixtures, larger-scale applications of UHPC are possible. This paper discusses a joint endeavor to develop precast bridge elements for Florida made from a non-proprietary, locally-based UHPC mixture. The paper discusses development of the non-proprietary mixture; evaluation of the mechanical properties and workability of the locally-based UHPC; considerations related to implementing the mixture at a plant-production scale;limited structural testing of a UHPC pile; and lessons learned from the trial placements to date.