Addressing Construction Needs for Ultra-High Performance (UHPC) Structural Elements

Amendment 0001 includes the Government’s responses to all questions received by the question submission due date, as well as a revised Call No. 003. The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) that is associated with this BAA Call is 693JJ3-24-BAA-0003_A0001 and is provided in the Attachments section, and also linked. Please refer to the BAA for detailed information and instructions on how to participate in this effort.

With the publication of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Guide Specification for Structural Design with Ultra-High Performance Concrete, nationwide interest in UHPC structural applications for infrastructure has surged. This next-generation concrete technology offers significant advantages over conventional concrete materials, providing a range of structural and durability benefits that enhance resilience and support the modernization of existing infrastructure.

To maximize the potential of UHPC in highway construction, establishing clear guidance on best construction practices will help streamline adoption and ensure successful implementation. UHPC’s optimized mixture composition allows for superior mechanical and structural performance compared to conventional concrete.

Its unique rheology and fiber reinforcement require specialized construction techniques tailored to UHPC to ensure that the as-cast component achieves the mechanical properties assumed during the design phase. Factors such as workability, flowability, placement location, flow direction, steam application, heat of hydration, and ambient temperature can affect the performance of the fabricated component and thus require consideration and control.

Through refined practices, UHPC can be effectively integrated into infrastructure projects, promoting safety, efficiency, and long-term resilience. FHWA aims to accelerate adoption of UHPC in highway structural elements by addressing key construction challenges and promoting effective practices through collaboration with the precast industry, UHPC suppliers, infrastructure owners, and designers.

This initiative seeks proposals that focus on overcoming obstacles, improving integration, and ensuring high-quality production through research focused on the development of standardized construction guidelines.