ABSTRACT

In Japan, the use of ulira high strength fiber reinforced concrete (UFC) has been increasing since the publication of recommendations on the design and construction of UFC structures by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers in September 2004. UFC is a unique cementitious composite with high tensile strength which enables concrete structure designs without reinforcing bars. Its durability is also very high compared to conventional concrete. UFC has been mainly applied to bridges, taking advantage of its high strength. Sakata-Mirai Footbridge was the first bridge constructed with UFC in Japan in October 2002. In this paper, the durability and strength performance of this UFC footbridge has been periodically studied. It was found that ten year old UFC footbridges can maintain good condition and mechanical properties even against severe environments, and thus the sustainability of UFC structures is verified in terms of the 10 year investigation.