In this episode, we talk with Michael McDonagh, P.E., P.Eng., vice president and senior technical principal at WSP, about the exciting uses of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and the challenges and promising future of this groundbreaking material in structural engineering.



***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:







Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Michael:



How did your experience as an engineer compare to focusing more specifically on design, including both the advantages and disadvantages you encountered?

Could you explain what ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is and how it differs from traditional concrete?

Do steel fibers in UHPC only serve for shear resistance and crack reduction, or do they also increase tensile strength or have other purposes?

Can you share project examples where you chose ultra-high-performance concrete based on its suitability for specific needs?

Since UHPC is significantly more expensive than conventional concrete, how do you justify the higher costs associated with using it in projects?

Aside from its longevity, how does ultra-high-performance concrete contribute to sustainability, and are there other sustainable aspects associated with it?

Are there guidelines or frameworks available for engineers interested in using UHPC in their projects, and what do these typically involve?

Was the absence of a design guide for structural engineers the main barrier preventing wider use of ultra-high-performance concrete in the industry, or were there other factors at play?

Where do you think UHPC has untapped potential in terms of regions or types of structures?

What final advice do you have for structural engineers or structural engineering students as they progress in their careers?



Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About Innovative Ways to Utilize UHPC in Construction:





Focusing specifically on design, especially with ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), has allowed Michael to delve into innovative projects and hone expertise in a niche area. This shift brings advantages in creating intricate and visually appealing designs, but also presents challenges, like navigating complexities and costs associated with advanced materials in construction.

UHPC differs from traditional concrete by excluding coarse aggregates and using fine sand with steel fibers for enhanced strength and durability. UHPC's exceptional properties include extreme durability and resistance to permeability, making it ideal for applications requiring longevity and high performance.

Ultra-high-performance concrete gains significant tensile strength from steel fibers, typically used in volumes ranging from 2% to 3%. The inclusion of these fibers provides both strength and ductility, allowing for innovative applications like thin, flexible UHPC slabs capable of substantial deflection without failure.

UHPC has transformed bridge construction by strengthening connections between precast members, improving durability, and speeding up construction while reducing costs. UHPC overlays on aging bridge decks provide exceptional durability and stiffness, enhancing structural strength and longevity compared to traditional alternatives.

Ultra-high-performance concrete can save costs in structural projects by optimizing designs and reducing the need for extra materials. While initial costs may not be lower, a lifecycle cost analysis often proves UHPC's long-term cost-effectiveness, particularly for durability-focused owners.

UHPC overlays provide significant long-term value, with durability projections of 30 to 50 years in lifecycle cost analyses. Although project data beyond 20 years is limited, UHPC's proven durability indicates lasting benefits for infrastruc...