Project 2.17 Summary:
Accelerated degradation of concrete/steel elements on bridges has been a major cause of concern
in Rhode Island and other northeastern states due to harsh winters, a significant number of freezethaw cycles, and the use of deicing salts. In this project, innovative durable 3D-printed composites
materials will be designed and developed for repair/strengthening of degraded concrete/steel
components on bridges toward enhanced durability and service life. Thus, this proposal will
forward various innovative viable strategies for performance-enhanced retrofitting and
rehabilitation of existing degraded structures such as the use of adhesively-bonded sandwiched
composite plates with 3D-printed auxetic cores, high-performance fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)
wrappings around columns enabled via 3D printed architectures and multifunctional FRP
laminates for strengthening of decks. These modern design strategies will be developed and
evaluated through a coordinated set of sophisticated experiments at multiple length scales and
validated models and predictive tools. The evaluation of engineering performance descriptors and
the development of validated prediction models and design optimization strategies that relate to
the features of the hierarchical structure of the composite materials at multiple length scales are
expected to be significant scientific steps that are vital in ensuring the practical adoption and
constructability of these 3D printed composites. Overall, it is anticipated that the outcome of this
comprehensive project has the potential to define a new paradigm in designing and evaluating 3D
printed composites that belong to the next generation of truly high-performance construction
materials. The breadth of collaborations between URI-RIDOT-Goetz Composites and associated
expertise will potentially generate significant new knowledge which will enable intelligent,
informed decision-making regarding the selection of composites for bridges in the northeastern
states for enhanced durability.
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Sumanta Das
Institution:
University of Rhode Island
Co-PIs:
Dr. Mayrai Gindy
Project Type:
Base-Funded
Start Date:
1/01/2022
Project Cost:
$320,613
Project Status:
In Progress
End Date:
09/30/2023
Agency ID:
69A3551847101
Sponsors:
University Transportation Centers Program, Department of Transportation
University of Rhode Island
Goetz Composites
401 Tech Bridge
Implementation of Research Outcomes:
This project is in its initial research phase. Implementation of Research outcomes will be reported upon completion of initial research.
Impacts and Benefits of Implementation:
This project is in its initial research phase. Impacts and benefits of the research will be reported after the implementation phase.
Related Links:
Coming Soon
Downloadable Documents
Printable Project Information Sheet