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Research Tests New Concrete Mix for Making Bridge Girders Faster and More Sustainably

Posted: May 21, 2020

In the first testing of full-scale bridge girders constructed with calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement, MPC researchers at Utah State University determined that the performance of CSA cement could be predicted by current load and resistance factor design specifications. The research results indicate that bridge designers can use this type of cement for a more sustainable and possibly economical structure.

Due to the growing need for increased turnover and production of precast/prestressed concrete, researchers are looking for ways to speed up this process. The rapid-set properties of CSA cement can increase prestressing casting bed turnover rates and may provide a more sustainable option to Portland cement. It's estimated that the carbon dioxide emissons required to produce Portland cement concrete could be reduced nearly 50% by using CSA cement.

Marc Maguire, Ph.D.
Utah State University

Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement Concrete for Prestressed Bridge Girders: Prestressing Losses, Bond, and Strength Behavior
MPC-19-401

NDSU Dept 2880P.O. Box 6050Fargo, ND 58108-6050
(701)231-7767ndsu.ugpti@ndsu.edu