Development of Research and Application of High-Performance Concrete in Bridge Engineering in Poland

Abstract

The needs concerning improvement in durability of existing and new bridges in Poland are briefly presented. The requirements to ensure a high durability of new bridge structures constructed on a new network of motorways are especially emphasized. Material possibilities to produce high-performance concrete in Poland are presented. Application of high-performance concrete to construct bridge structures with the use of modern erection methods (e.g. incremental launching, cast-in-place cantilever balance) is analyzed and exemplified in the light of technical and economical aspects. Special attention is given to the development of the research on high-performance concrete in Poland. Some chosen problems are presented in particular, namely: testing and technological problems, hydration and thermal effects and their influence on material properties, bond strength, strength tests of structural members subjected to different type of loading. Design problems concerning structural applications of high-performance concrete are also listed and discussed, focusing on bridge structures. A lack of the relevant requirements in existing design standards or codes is emphasized and a consequence of it for engineering practices is discussed. Concluding remarks summarizing research of high-performance concrete in Poland and its up-to-date and future potential structural applications are formulated.