High-Load Bearing Deformation Block Made of UHPC

Abstract

Statistics indicates that one quarter of deadly traffic accidents are caused by the collision of vehicle with non-deformable objects. To address this issue and to decrease the transportation hazards, we developed novel Energy Absorbing System (EAS). It is comprised of blocks with cellular structures made of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC). These blocks are able to absorb impact energy because of the gradual brittle fracture process which occurs in the cellular structures and at the same time they are able to carry the weight of the structure above or to withstand the load generated by crossing vehicles. The UHPC used makes EAS suitable for use in harsh environmental conditions while still having reasonable production costs and the ability to be mass produced. All components of UHPC are commonly available in large volumes for a reasonable price and the resulting material can be shaped into various forms, and gradual deceleration of the car was recorded. The ability of the EAS made of UHPC to gradually decelerate impacting cart was demonstrated using experimental and numerical methods. The main objective of our recent project is to further improve the EAS in cooperation with the private sector and to begin its mass production.