Publications

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

Development of a rational design methodology for precast concrete slender spandrel beams: Part 2, analysis and design guidelines

Lucier, G., Walter, C., Rizkalla, S., Zia, P., & Klein, G. (2011), PCI Journal, 106–133. https://doi.org/10.15554/pcij.09012011.106.133

Behavior of concrete bridge decks reinforced with high-performance steel

Seliem, H. M., Lucier, G., Rizkalla, S. H., & Zia, P. (2008), ACI Structural Journal, 105(1), 78–86. https://doi.org/10.14359/19071

View all publications via NC State Libraries

Grants

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

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

×

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.

Close

Reverse Cyclic Fatigue of Precast Concrete Sandwich Panels

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

×

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

Close

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)

×

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.

Close

Nondestructive Concrete Characterization System

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

×

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.

Close

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

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

×

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.

Close

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)

×

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

Close

The Use of Fiber Reinforcement in Latex Modified Concrete Overlay

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

×

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.

Close

Collaborative Research: Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI)

National Science Foundation (NSF)(11/01/14 - 10/31/19)

×

Collaborative Research: Center for Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI)

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 11/01/14

End Date: 10/31/19

Abstract

The proposed project has an information technology (IT) component that will be coordinated with CICI university partners (UM and NCSU). The following sections highlight the nature of the project’s data generation, storage, retention, and sharing components as per NCSU. Expected data This research is expected generate datasets similar to those produced by a typical materials/structures laboratory. The types of data include: 􀁸 Experimental measurements from voltage or current measurement devices. These measurements will be converted to useful units through calibration scales. Data will be collected by instruments and sensors such as: strain gauges, load cells, linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs), and displacement transducers. 􀁸 Quantitative information in the form of human or machine readouts from measurement devices such as rulers, meter tapes, volume measurement containers, scales, and environmental gauges. 􀁸 Qualitative information such as experimental behavior, test conditions, or other significant observations. 􀁸 Multimedia data such as photographs, videos, screen captures, audio/video logs captured by cameras, camcorders, or audio recorders, or other multimedia devices. 􀁸 Written documents such as progress logs, journal articles, periodic reports, presentations, or any other document detailing progress, results, or outcomes. Data will be collected for the entire duration of this project. In particular, data is expected to be collected during testing preparation, equipment calibration, testing, personnel training, and demonstrations. Data related to the dissemination of information such as written documents or multimedia data, as it relates to publication or sharing of results, creation of manuscripts for archival publication, presentations, and reports, is expected to be generated following significant milestones in the project, and can be expected on a monthly or longer frequency. The project will result in the creation of a software framework for data management, sharing, analysis, and visualization. The code will be managed by graduate students and will be supervised by the PI. The majority of the code will be uploaded to a code repository such as GITHUB, where the code will be made open source under a GNU license.

Close

Assessment of Deteriorated Cored Slabs Bridge No: 1050035 and 150039

NC Department of Transportation(8/16/13 - 5/08/15)

×

Assessment of Deteriorated Cored Slabs Bridge No: 1050035 and 150039

Sponsor: NC Department of Transportation

Start Date: 8/16/13

End Date: 5/08/15

Abstract

Prestressed concrete cored slabs are common bridge elements used by the NCDOT for spans up to approximately 60 ft. While cored slabs are structurally efficient, serving as both superstructure and deck, their internal steel reinforcement can be vulnerable to corrosion. Corrosion is of particular concern when structures are located in aggressive environments such as coastal regions or in areas where deicing chemicals are used. The internal steel in cored slabs can corrode when salts and moisture penetrate the concrete from the road surface or are splashed onto the bridge from the bottom or sides. Recent inspections of prestressed concrete cored slab bridges in Carteret County, NC, have brought to light a significant degree of corrosion in the stirrups and prestressing strands of these members. In certain cases, corrosion has compromised layers of longitudinal reinforcement, leading to extensive delamination and spalling of the concrete cover from the soffit of the bridge superstructure. Specifically, the deterioration of the superstructure of Bridge No. 150035 and Bridge No. 150039 are such that they are scheduled for replacement within the next few months. As with most corroded reinforced and prestressed concrete structures, the extent of the deterioration that cannot be visually observed beyond the concrete cover depth is of greatest concern. For example, it is not known to what extent the layers of prestressing strands within the section have deteriorated. The bottom layer of prestressing is clearly deteriorated in several members, however, the condition of the strands above this lowermost layer is unknown. Similarly, the condition of the stirrups and strands behind large areas of delaminated concrete is not known from visual inspection alone. To address this issue a research program has been developed that will (i) critically evaluate existing non-destructive techniques used to quantify the extent of corrosion in existing in-service members, and that can be readily adopted by NCDOT maintenance engineers and contracted bridge inspectors, (ii) undertake detailed field investigations of the two bridges scheduled for superstructure replacement creating a comprehensive photographic record of the degrees and extent of deterioration, (iii) implement the non-destructive techniques on eight deteriorated prestressed concrete cored slab units identified and taken directly from the in-service bridges in order to evaluate their effectiveness and develop protocols for future use, and (iv) test the eight units to destruction in three-point bending to experimentally quantify and observe their failure mode and residual capacity. A unique feature of this research program is the direct correlation that will be established between field measurements (including both visual inspection and non-destructive testing), laboratory testing, and destructive inspection of in-service prestressed concrete cored slab units commonly used by NCDOT that were fabricated with materials common to NC and aged in an environment typical of coastal NC. The outcomes of which will enable NCDOT personnel to assess the residual strength and performance of other similar in-service bridges so that informed decisions may be made regarding maintenance, repair and replacement priorities.

Close

Nondestructive Concrete Characterization System

US Army(11/18/13 - 5/18/16)

×

Nondestructive Concrete Characterization System

Sponsor: US Army

Start Date: 11/18/13

End Date: 5/18/16

Abstract

During covert operations, the U.S. Army may be required to breach a concrete structure using a controlled explosion. When choosing the most effective charge size and placement, it is vital to perform a rapid field assessment of the material and structural properties of the target structure. However, recent advances in manufacturing high strength concrete materials may increase the uncertainty of these assessment methods. Therefore, the Army is seeking a non-destructive evaluation (NDE) system which can connect with currently fielded Army systems and identify the following required information: compressive strength of in-situ concrete from 3 ksi to 30 ksi within +/- 3 ksi; wall thickness up to 6 ft with an accuracy of 1 ft; presence and location of metal substructure (such as steel reinforcement) within 1ft from the wall surface; and presence of fiber reinforcement. This project will utilize the commercially available NLA RECON? (manufactured by NLA Diagnostics, LLC), which is rugged, portable, and a field-ready NDE system. The NLA RECON? will utilize ultrasonic pulse velocity, impact-echo, pulse-echo, and ultrasonic attenuation to meet or exceed the Army?s requirements. Tests will be performed on a selected set of large concrete specimens constructed at the Constructed Facilities Laboratory of North Carolina State University, and on in-service structures in the Raleigh, NC, area. The outcome of the project is a handheld system which will utilize an array of transducers to test an appropriately sized area with maximum speed and accuracy. In addition to displaying the material properties and appropriate breaching charge size, the final version will rapidly obtain a two dimensional image of the internal features of the structure. The system could be held against the wall or structure and the proposed tests would be performed automatically. The operator will need very little, if any, NDE expertise to use this equipment. There is vast potential for dual use in numerous applications within the Department of Defense and the commercial sector. For example, state Departments of Transportation could use this all-in-one solution to assess the compressive strength and quality of deteriorating concrete infrastructure. In a similar manner to the Army, the Department of Homeland Security, as well as state and local authorities, could use the technology for breaching concrete structures.

Close