Ultra-High-Performance Concrete: A Game Changer in the Precast Concrete Industry

■ PCI has devoted resources to study ways to meet UHPC implementation challenges, which include cost and the development of UHPC structural systems to capitalize on its unique capabilities. Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) was first introduced as reactive powder concrete in the early 1990s by employees of the French contractor Bouygues. Since then, France, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, and several other countries have made significant progress in using this material for bridge construction and other applications. The first roadway bridge with UHPC beams was built in France in 2001 and comprised five double tees with a beam section referred to as a pi shape.