UTC 2022 Funding - Cycle 2 Research Projects

Project No.: CY3-UNM-04
Title: Lightweight, Durable, and Cost-Effective: Advancing Voided Concrete Technology with Engineered Cementitious Composites  
Performing Institution: University of New Mexico
Principal Investigator: Madura Pathirage and Maryam Hojati, University of New Mexico
Start and Anticipated Completion Dates: 01/01/2026 to 01/15/2027
Abstract: This project will evaluate replacing conventional concrete with Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) in the existing voided concrete technology to address current limitations while leveraging material synergies. Indeed, ECC, reinforced with polyethylene fibers, offers superior mechanical performance in tensile ductility and strain-hardening behavior, mitigating shear and crack propagation issues in voided slabs and beams. In addition, the compressive strength exceeds that of conventional concrete, which in turn compensates for capacity reductions from voids. In terms of durability in harsh environments, the crack-width control in ECC enhances corrosion resistance, which is critical for bridge decks exposed to de-icing salts. Finally, the proposed solution is cost-effective through material efficiency as ECC’s higher cost is offset by combining its performance with voided concrete material reduction.  

This study will include a series of mechanical tests on lab-scale voided biaxial beams made with ECC and regular concrete to assess the viability and quantify the expected improvements in structural behavior.
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