Publications

Anchor Bolt Patterns for Mechanically Fastened FRP Plates

McCoy, B. C., Bourara, Z., Seracino, R., & Lucier, G. W. (2019), JOURNAL OF COMPOSITES FOR CONSTRUCTION, 23(4). https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)CC.1943-5614.0000951

Numerical simulation and experimental corroboration of galvanic corrosion of mild steel in synthetic concrete pore solution

Mohammadian, A., Rashetnia, R., Lucier, G., Seracino, R., & Pour-Ghaz, M. (2019), CEMENT & CONCRETE COMPOSITES, 103, 263–278. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cemconcomp.2019.04.027

Boundary Elements of Special Reinforced Concrete Walls Tested under Different Loading Paths

Haro, A. G., Kowalsky, M., Chai, Y. H., & Lucier, G. W. (2018), EARTHQUAKE SPECTRA, 34(3), 1267–1288. https://doi.org/10.1193/081617EQS160M

Influence of geometry and fiber properties on rupture strain of cylindrical FRP jackets under internal ICE pressure

Sadeghian, P., Seracino, R., Das, B., & Lucier, G. (2018), Composite Structures, 192, 173–183. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compstruct.2018.02.077

Seismic performance of reinforced concrete filled steel tube drilled shafts with inground plastic hinges

Aguirre, D. A., Kowalsky, M. J., Nau, J. M., Gabr, M., & Lucier, G. (2018), Engineering Structures, 165, 106–119. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2018.03.034

New generation of precast concrete double tees reinforced with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer grid response

Lunn, D., Lucier, G., Rizkalla, S., Cleland, N., & Gleich, H. (2017), PCI Journal, 90–91.

New generation of precast concrete double tees reinforced by carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer grid response

Lunn, D., Lucier, G., Rizkalla, S., Cleland, N., & Gleich, H. (2016), PCI Journal, 87–89.

New generation of precast concrete double tees reinforced with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer grid

Lunn, D., Lucier, G., Rizkalla, S., Cleland, N., & Gleich, H. (2015), PCI Journal, 37–48. https://doi.org/10.15554/pcij.07012015.37.48

Development of a rational design methodology for precast concrete slender spandrel beams

Klein, G., Rizkalla, S., Zia, P., & Lucier, G. (2012), PCI Journal, 182–186.

Innovative use of FRP for the precast concrete industry

Rizkalla, S., Lucier, G., & Dawood, M. (2012), Advances in Structural Engineering, 15(4), 565–574. https://doi.org/10.1260/1369-4332.15.4.565

View all publications via NC State Libraries

Grants

Confinement of Square Reinforced Concrete Columns with FRP Wraps - CICI Core Project

Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) - NCSU Research Site(7/01/19 - 6/30/20)

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Confinement of Square Reinforced Concrete Columns with FRP Wraps - CICI Core Project

Sponsor: Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) - NCSU Research Site

Start Date: 7/01/19

End Date: 6/30/20

Abstract

A project focused on the strengthening of reinforced concrete columns under reverse cyclic loading is proposed. Concrete columns will be produced with integrated foundations and will be strengthened with various types of Fiber Reinforced Polymer strengthening systems. The strengthening will be focused on flexural strengthening through confinement and on shear strengthening through external FRP stirrups. All columns will be loaded under reverse cyclic load histories in the presence of axial load. The goal of the program will be to investigate whether various systems can meet building code requirements for FRP strengthening systems.

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Fiber Reinforcement for Latex Modified Concrete Overlays

NC Department of Transportation(8/01/19 - 7/31/21)

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Fiber Reinforcement for Latex Modified Concrete Overlays

Sponsor: NC Department of Transportation

Start Date: 8/01/19

End Date: 7/31/21

Abstract

A large number of bridge deck rehabilitations are performed each year in North Carolina. Latex Modified Concrete (LMC) and LMC–Very Early Strength (LMC-VES) are frequently used in these rehabilitations because these materials provide reasonable installed performance and allow for a rapid return to service. Over the last 5 years, the NCDOT has completed an average of about 25 overlays per year using LMC or LMC-VES materials. The vast majority of these projects are highly successful. However, despite comprehensive NCDOT guidelines and specifications (such as PSP003 and PSP004), substantial cracking is sometimes observed in these overlays shortly after installation. Prior research funded by NCDOT has indicated that if placement and curing follows proper construction procedures, then the primary causes of cracking (such as shrinkage and plastic shrinkage) in LMC and LMC-VES materials are unlikely to develop. However, other secondary mechanisms can potentially cause cracking, including vibration of the structure during casting and curing, temperature changes during casting, and slight differential settlement/deflection of supporting decks as overlay placement progresses across a bridge. These suspected secondary causes of cracking are difficult (or impossible) to mitigate in practice. In practice, it can also be difficult to completely enforce proper construction procedure, which can lead to some shrinkage cracking. For example, fogging above fresh LMC-VES is allowable, but allowing water to accumulate on the material during placement and finishing is not – the distinction is sometimes difficult to monitor and enforce in the field.

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Durability of Pipe Materials in Soils

NC Department of Transportation(8/01/19 - 7/31/21)

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Durability of Pipe Materials in Soils

Sponsor: NC Department of Transportation

Start Date: 8/01/19

End Date: 7/31/21

Abstract

A large number culvert pipes are installed every year in North Carolina. While the loading and structural requirements for these pipes are considered during the selection process, the exposure condition of these culverts receives less attention. Many pipe choices exist including reinforced concrete, galvanized steel, aluminum, aluminized, and various types of plastic. Choosing the right pipe for the right installation is a non-trivial task that carries significant financial impact. Factors such as structural capacity, environmental durability, anticipated life-span, required pipe size, site conditions, and available construction expertise are all important when selecting a pipe. Existing NCDOT selection tables provide some limited guidance, but often result in highly-conservative selections being made, particularly from the perspective of matching pipe materials to site environmental conditions. Selection of the wrong pipe material (or an overly-conservative pipe material) can result in significant excess cost. If materials degrade too quickly, costly re-work is required, and additional costs and risks may be incurred due to reduced performance of the degraded pipe. If high-cost and high-performance materials are selected in areas where they are not needed, then initial construction costs can increase dramatically. For example, in many situations, aluminized corrugated steel pipe can likely provide the same useful service life as corrugated aluminum pipe at a dramatically reduced cost. Aluminum pipe may be justified in regions with salt-water exposure, however, it is likely an over-conservative choice for regions where contact with salt will be incidental. Accounts from NCDOT personnel have indicated widespread use of aluminum pipe in regions where it is likely not needed (i.e., regions with limited salt exposure).

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Mechanically Fastened CFRP to Retrofit Existing Prestressed Concrete and Steel Bridge Beams

NC Department of Transportation(8/01/17 - 7/31/20)

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Mechanically Fastened CFRP to Retrofit Existing Prestressed Concrete and Steel Bridge Beams

Sponsor: NC Department of Transportation

Start Date: 8/01/17

End Date: 7/31/20

Abstract

Prestressed concrete C-channels and cored slabs, and steel beams of various shapes and forms make up a significant percentage of the common bridge superstructure systems used by NCDOT. Many such bridges are in varying states of distress and require retrofit to extend their useful service life prior to major rehabilitation or superstructure replacement. The challenge is to develop retrofit techniques that are durable, easy to install, monitor and maintain, and that may be applied to the range of prestressed concrete and steel beam types. Critically, NCDOT must also be able to rate the proposed retrofit using approved AASHTO methods before it may be applied in the field. In many cases the retrofit may be considered temporary since the bridge may be scheduled for replacement in the near future. Temporary strengthening is intended to provide the ability to maintain a sufficiently high operating rating to keep the bridge functional while replacement is scheduled. In lieu of an acceptable retrofit, the bridge may need to be load posted or closed, often resulting in significant detours and disruption.

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Reverse Cyclic Fatigue of Precast Concrete Sandwich Panels

AltusGroup, Inc.(12/01/16 - 1/25/17)

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Reverse Cyclic Fatigue of Precast Concrete Sandwich Panels

Sponsor: AltusGroup, Inc.

Start Date: 12/01/16

End Date: 1/25/17

Abstract

TSA - Reverse Cyclic Fatigue of Precast Concrete Sandwich Panels

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FRP Strengthening for Concrete Members, CICI Core Project

Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) - NCSU Research Site(7/01/16 - 6/30/19)

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FRP Strengthening for Concrete Members, CICI Core Project

Sponsor: Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) - NCSU Research Site

Start Date: 7/01/16

End Date: 6/30/19

Abstract

This research will study the ability of strengthened reinforced concrete columns to resist reverse cyclic lateral load cycles. Control columns and strengthened columns will be tested and specimens will be designed to fail in either flexure or shear. Strengthening systems made of carbon fiber or glass fiber will be applied to selected columns and those columns will be retested to examine the structural performance of the strengthening system.

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Nondestructive Concrete Characterization System

US Army(12/20/16 - 3/29/19)

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Nondestructive Concrete Characterization System

Sponsor: US Army

Start Date: 12/20/16

End Date: 3/29/19

Abstract

Traditional concrete protective structures encountered by ground forces typically have unconfined compressive strengths of between 3,000 to 6,000 psi. Recent advances in concrete technology have resulted in new concrete materials with compressive strengths of 30,000 psi or greater. No field instrument currently exists that can simultaneously determine the compressive strength, thickness, and rebar configuration of concrete structures across today’s wide range of possible compressive strengths. In STTR Phase I/II efforts, NLA Diagnostics LLC (NLAD) developed a prototype instrument that measures both compressive strength and concrete thickness up to 33,000 psi and 6 ft, respectively. NLAD has also mapped out a technical course to locate rebar within the concrete. This proposed project will take input from military operators to improve packaging of the existing technology and to implement a rebar mapping capability in order to enhance military capabilities to defeat concrete protective structures, accelerate the ability to deploy concrete characterization instruments with operating forces, and reduce the technical risks associated with engaging concrete protective structures in tactical situations.

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Creations in Concrete: An Integrated Architecture and Civil Engineering Instructional Project in Precast Concrete

PCI Foundation(1/01/17 - 12/31/20)

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Creations in Concrete: An Integrated Architecture and Civil Engineering Instructional Project in Precast Concrete

Sponsor: PCI Foundation

Start Date: 1/01/17

End Date: 12/31/20

Abstract

North Carolina State University School of Architecture (SOA) and Department of Civil, Construction, & Environmental Engineering (CCEE) is seeking multi-year funding from the PCI Foundation to introduce architecture and civil engineering students to precast concrete systems and solutions. This proposal identifies existing courses in which precast concrete is minimally taught or mentioned, and proposes a new architecture studio course integrated with civil engineering and digital fabrication courses. All three courses will be dedicated to precast concrete applications. They will begin in Spring 2017, continue for 4 years, and will be an incubator to significantly expand the instruction and knowledge of precast and prestressed concrete at NCSU.

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Development of Advanced Composite Reinforcing Bars, CICI Core Project 8

Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) - NCSU Research Site(11/16/15 - 6/30/17)

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Development of Advanced Composite Reinforcing Bars, CICI Core Project 8

Sponsor: Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) - NCSU Research Site

Start Date: 11/16/15

End Date: 6/30/17

Abstract

Membership

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The Use of Fiber Reinforcement in Latex Modified Concrete Overlay

NC Department of Transportation(8/01/15 - 12/31/16)

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The Use of Fiber Reinforcement in Latex Modified Concrete Overlay

Sponsor: NC Department of Transportation

Start Date: 8/01/15

End Date: 12/31/16

Abstract

A large number of bridge deck rehabilitations are performed each year in North Carolina. Latex Modified Concrete (LMC) and LMC–Very Early Strength (LMC-VES) are used in these rehabilitations because they allow for a rapid return to service. Despite the comprehensive guidelines and specifications developed by NCDOT (such as PSP003 and PSP004) for quality control, and control of cracking, substantial cracking is observed in these overlays. The observed cracking is mainly attributed to thermal cracking, shrinkage cracking, plastic shrinkage cracking or a combination of them. Cracking of all types substantially reduces the effectiveness and service life of these overlays. To address the cracking issue, the proposed research will investigate whether non-metallic fiber reinforcement can be used to control and reduce cracking in LMC materials. A multi-phased research program is proposed. First, during this project, a number of active overlay projects will be visited. The main goal of these visits is for the researchers to become completely familiar with typical field practices for process of mixing, placing, and curing the overlay. This will help in identifying the best method to add fibers to the mixture and in identifying potential difficulties that addition of fibers might introduce. The researchers will also document observations that will be used to provide guidelines on the best placing and curing practices after addition of fibers. Second, the susceptibility of the LMC to plastic shrinkage cracking will be evaluated using ASTM C1579. The evaluation of plastic shrinkage cracking is important since the type of the fibers needed to control plastic shrinkage cracking is different from the type of the fibers needed for other types of shrinkage cracking and thermal cracking. If LMC is highly susceptible to plastic shrinkage cracking, the effectiveness of an appropriate type of fibers in reducing plastic shrinkage cracking will also be evaluated. Third, the susceptibility of LMC to drying and autogenous shrinkage cracking will be evaluated using restrained ring test. The purpose of this laboratory test is to identify the minimum dosage and an effective type of the fiber in controlling the cracking. Restrained rings with three different degrees of restraint (thickness of the steel ring) will be used. Ring tests will include the test specified by the ASTM specifications. Forth, after identifying the minimum required fiber and the type of fibers, fiber reinforced LMC will be tested on large-scale slabs. For this task the actual volumetric mixer that is used in the field will be employed. Two slabs, one unreinforced and one fiber reinforced LMC, will be cast beside each other using the same equipment and the same crew. The slabs will be cured simultaneously in an environmental chamber that will enable the creation of specific curing conditions. The fiber distribution generated by the volumetric mixer will be quantified using digital image analyses. Finally, if the use of fibers proves unsuccessful or impractical, the researcher will perform a literature review on alternative materials and methods of reducing and controlling cracking that might be feasible and propose those methods to NCDOT for further study.

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