Low Shrinkage UHPC - The Why, How, and Where? 

Presented By: Vic Perry, ceEntek North America
There is a general misconception that Ultra-High-Performance Concretes (UHPC) have high shrinkage. In fact, UHPCs are a family of products with a wide range of properties, including shrinkage. In many applications of UHPC shrinkage is an important consideration, particularly where restraint during curing occurs. The tensile capacity of a given structural element can be partially consumed by shrinkage in the UHPC material as it cures, especially in restrained applications. It is therefore important that the shrinkage properties be considered to understand the associated reduction in tensile capacity. Additionally, during the curing phase, UHPCs typically have low tensile strengths and the impact of early restrained shrinkage needs to be evaluated to ensure early shrinkage cracking does not occur. In those applications such as precast elements, overlays, jacketing and other rehabilitations restrained shrinkage is an important factor to consider. This presentation will cover the unique properties of a UHPC, specifically shrinkage vs residual tensile strength and the impact on the performance of the intended application (i.e., bridge overlays and others).