Concrete Bridge Component Collection

Concrete Bridge Component Collection

The Concrete Bridge Component Collection at CBEI contains full-scale specimens from decommissioned bridges as well as from previous research projects.  The initial setup and specimens have been installed, and construction is ongoing to add new components and further develop the site.  The collection is used to illustrate concepts using a visual and hands-on approach.  The components include segmental bridge components, precast girders, bent caps, and specimens exhibiting concrete deterioration such as alkali-silica reaction (ASR).  These components are used in training and demonstrations, and particularly in illustrating problems and solutions.  The specimens are a good fit for non-destructive evaluation techniques, both in demonstrating capabilities of new technologies and training for existing technologies.    

<h3>Segment from IH 35 to US 183 Direct Connector Ramp</h3>
<img src="https://cbei.engr.utexas.edu/sites/default/files/images/slide1.jpg" alt="IH35 Segment" style="width:300px; float:left; margin-right:20px;">
<p>This precast segment was part of the ramp superstructure constructed using the span-by-span method. The bridge was decommissioned in 2021 and represents one of the first examples of a segmental bridge to be decommissioned in the U.S.</p>
<p><strong>Fun Fact:</strong> Some other parts of the ramp were built using the balanced cantilever method and were the focus of research by Dr. Breen.</p>
<p><a href="https://cbei.engr.utexas.edu/%3Ca%20href%3D"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO_b5Y431CE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO_b5Y431CE" target="_blank">Watch the bridge implosion video</a></p>
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