Investigating the Potential of Using High Performance Concrete in Precast High Speed Rail Bridges

Abstract

High Speed Railway (HSR) bridges are limited in design by the sudden, heavy, repetitive nature of the vehicle loading. As a result, prestressed concrete HSR bridges are stockier than highway bridges to ensure high mass, stiffness and resistance. Different types of prestressed concrete bridges have been implemented, with a number being constructed using prefabrication techniques. However, the concrete currently used for HSR bridges uses conventional strength levels. Considering the technological improvements that have led to much stronger concretes being available, implementing these into HSR bridges could bring significant benefits.