Innovative concrete structures
Overview
Research on concrete structures within CSAE is focused on three main areas. These are the realistic strength assessment of existing concrete bridges and buildings, strengthening of such structures using advanced composite fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials, and the future durable design of concrete structures using non-metallic reinforcement.
Under structural assessment, research includes the realistic appraisal of existing highway and railway concrete bridges, which have been shown theoretically to be deficient in shear strength. Research based on the use of plasticity theory has led to large savings to the Highways Agency and Network Rail in avoiding unnecessary strengthening.
Structural strengthening of concrete bridges and buildings using FRP materials covers flexural, shear and confinement issues. The revised Concrete Society Report TR55 is presently being drafted within CSAE. There is also substantial involvement with Missouri’s new specifications for the use of FRP to strengthen their bridges. Committees ACI-440 and fibTG9.3 are both served by CSAE membership.
The future durable design of concrete structures using FRP materials is concerned with the rational use of polymers, so that efficient use is made of their inherent properties.
Graduate students and academic visitors are always welcome to join this vibrant group within CSAE.
People
| Tim Ibell |
Professor |
| Paolo Casadei |
Lecturer |
| Anthony Darby |
Lecturer |
| J D Shave |
Research student |
| P Valerio |
Research student |
Projects
- Fibre reinforced concrete
- Strengthening of concrete bridges
