Experimental and numerical study on an innovative sandwich system utilizing UPFRC in bridge applications

Abstract Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC), a newly embraced construction philosophy, is a paradigm shift in bridge delivery method that includes planning, design, construction, and maintenance. Ultra High-Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC), offering superior properties such as exceptional high strength and durability, can be a smart material choice for ABC projects. Steel-Concrete-Steel Sandwich (SCSS) system using UHPFRC has the potential to merge the advanced structural performance with construction efficiency as aimed at the ABC approach. In this research, the implementation of the steel-concrete sandwich system using UHPFRC was investigated by conducting experimental and numerical studies to evaluate the behavior of the innovative proposed system called “Steel-UHPFRC Sandwich.” The system consists of two thin stainless-steel plates folded to form a girder without a top flange. Feasibility study on the proposed system proves that it can both facilitate and accelerate the construction process and have incredibly ductile behavior. The experimental data was also employed to validate the numerical model of the system. Simultaneously, a series of numerical models were conducted to assess the effects of the various parameters on the behavior of the proposed system.