Research
USA Projects
North Carolina State University (Since August 2000):
| Title: | Non-Destructive Inspection of Dry Storage Nuclear Fuel Facilities via Robotic Sampling and Sensing |
| Granting Agency: | US Department of Energy (DOE) |
| Funding Amount: | $3,570,572 |
| Dates: | January 2015 – December 2017 |
| PI: | M. Bourham |
| Status: | Applied |
| Abstract: | The main objective of the project is to develop a non-destructive non-invasive sensory system and devices for inspection and surface sample collection for dry storage of used nuclear fuel. The plan is to employ robotic systems for inspection to develop enhanced NDT Sensors and viewing techniques to detect cracks, corrosion, lose parts and seals’ monitoring humidity, surface temperature, air flow through the vents; and collecting surface samples such as debris, dirt and clay. |
| Title: | Thermally and Structurally Efficient Concrete Sandwich Panels |
| Granting Agency: | Altus Group |
| Funding Amount: | $50,000 |
| Dates: | May 1, 2014 – March 30, 2015 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Submitted |
| Abstract: | The main objective to evaluate the effective use of CFRP Grid in providing the composite action of concrete sandwich panels typically used as load bearing panels for commercial buildings. The various parameters investigated are the thickness of the rigid foam and the spacing between the Grids. |
| Title: | CFRP Strands in Prestressed Cored Slab Units |
| Granting Agency: | NCDOT |
| Funding Amount: | $91,649 |
| Dates: | August 1, 2013 – August 15, 2014 |
| PI: | Rudi Seracino |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | The research aims to investigate the potential use of non-corroding Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) prestressing strands in place of steel strands and the use of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer stirrups in place of steel stirrups. The use of these new materials has the potential to greatly enhance the durability and corrosion resistance of cored slab deck members. The research will include literature and design guide study, full-scale laboratory testing of cored slab girders, material testing, computer modeling, and rational analysis. Design recommendations and guidelines will be developed for the NCDOT. |
| Title: | Innovative CFRP small diameter strands for strengthening steel structures and bridges |
| Granting Agency: | Nippon Steel |
| Funding Amount: | $100,000 |
| Dates: | August 16, 2010 – August 15, 2014 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | The research investigate the effectiveness of using high strength, almost twice of the steel strength, CFRP small diameter strands to strength the buckling and shear resistance of the web of steel girders typically used for bridges. The research consider various parameters including the aspect ratio of the steel plate, thickness of the plates, orientation of the CFRP strands and the number of layers of the strengthening system. The first phase include testing using pure axial compression load and the second phase investigates the behavior under pure shear loadings using special test set-up. |
| Title: | Center for the Integration of Composities into infrastructure (CICI) |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | $225,000 |
| Dates: | August 16, 2014 – August 15, 2019 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Abstract: | The center activities will enhance the international competitiveness of the American industry in the area of composites including modular construction and rapid deployment techniques using natural and bio-materials; thus reducing carbon emissions into the atmosphere. The use of composite will lead to structures of higher safety, shorter construction times, and longer life spans at a reduced overall cost. |
| Title: | Center for the Integration of Composites into Infrastructure (CICI) |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | $315,000 |
| Dates: | August 16, 2010 – August 15, 2014 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | The center activities will enhance the international competitiveness of the American industry in the area of composites including modular construction and rapid deployment techniques using natural and bio-materials; thus reducing carbon emissions into the atmosphere. The use of composite will lead to structures of higher safety, shorter construction times, and longer life spans at a reduced overall cost. |
| Title: | Behavior and Design of Directly Loaded L-Shaped Beam Ledges |
| Granting Agency: | Prestressed Concrete Institution – Member of I/UCRC CICI Center |
| Funding Amount: | $200,000 |
| Dates: | July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2014 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | The goal of the proposed research is to determine the ledge capacities for a wide range of L-spandrel and ledger beam geometries. The primary objective is to develop more reliable design equations for ledge punching shear. However,, the research will also evaluate other interrelated ledge resistance mechanisms: cantilever flexure, longitudinal flexure, and ledge-to-web attachment. The detailed investigation will rely upon existing test data, published literatures, current design guides, advanced computer analyses, and experimental testing. Based on these results, the research will develop a comprehensive set of appropriate and practical design procedures, suitable for implementation. The research program consists of two phases. |
| Title: | FRP Shear Transfer Mechanism for Concrete Sandwich Panels |
| Granting Agency: | Altus Group – Member of I/UCRC CICI Center |
| Funding Amount: | $100,000 |
| Dates: | July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2013 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | This project is investigating a glass fiber reinforced polymer grid, used as a shear transfer mechanism for concrete sandwich panels in conjunction with the bond formed between the foam insulation and the concrete wythes. It is well documented that steel is an effective means of transferring shear forces through the foam core, however steel is thermally inefficient. GFRP and CFRP (carbon) offers significant thermal benefits, as it does not conduct heat through the foam core, however its structural properties need to be defined. |
| Title: | 3D FRP Sandwich Panels with Web Corrugation |
| Granting Agency: | Martin Marrietta – Member of I/UCRC CICI Center |
| Funding Amount: | $50.000 |
| Dates: | July 1, 2010 – June 30, 2011 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project involved parametric testing program which evaluated the structural performance of new 3-D FRP sandwich panels in presence of web corrugation. The initial phase of experiment studied influence of web corrugations on the fundamental characteristics of 3 inches thick sandwich panels under various loading conditions. The subsequent phase of the experimental program focused testing 2 inches thick panels emphasizing alteration effects of the structural behavior. To evaluate the influence of web corrugation of shear modulus in comparison to panels without web corrugations, a total of six specimens were tested. |
| Title: | Use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer Materials for Innovative Insulated Concrete Sandwich Panels |
| Granting Agency: | Korea Institute of Construction Technology |
| Funding Amount: | $120,000 |
| Dates: | May 2011 – May 2013 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | The proposed research program investigates the use of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP), produced in Korea, to achieve the composite action of precast and possibly prestressed concrete sandwich panels. The panels could be used as load bearing and/or non-load bearing architectural panels. The panels typically consist of two outer concrete wythes and an interior foam core. |
| Title: | Behavior of Semicontinuous FRP Grid Connectors for Concrete Sandwich Panels |
| Granting Agency: | Altus Group |
| Funding Amount: | $63,000 |
| Dates: | July 2012 – June 2013 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded |
| Abstract: | The objective of the research project is to examine the effectiveness of carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials in grid configuration as shear connectors for Reinforced Concrete Sandwich Panels. The new panels are structurally and thermally efficient. |
| Title: | Evaluation of a New High Corrosive Resistant Steel Reinforcement for Concrete Structures in the Mediterranean Salt Environments |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | $36,290 |
| Dates: | September 2005 – December 2009 |
| PI: | T. Hassan Co-PI: S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | MMFX is a high strength, highly corrosion resistant steel, ideal for use in civil engineering applications for salt environments such as the Mediterranean environment in Egypt and high humidity climate such as in North Carolina and many other ocean exposed states. The research will introduce the MMFX steel as a new material has a high corrosion resistance to the engineering community in Egypt for the first time. The proposed research project consists of three major tasks; (i) experimental work, (ii) analytical phase, (iii) development of design guidelines. The research is currently in progress at Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. |
| Title: | Evaluation of Bond Characteristics of MMFX Steel |
| Granting Agency: | NSF – I/UCRC – RB2C – MMFX Technologies Corporation |
| Funding Amount: | $183,333 |
| Dates: | July 2005 – December 2009 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The high-strength steel commercially known as Micro-composite Multi-structural formable (MMFX) steel could lead to potential savings through the use of lower reinforcement ratios due to its higher strength. The proposed research will investigate the bond behavior of MMFX steel to concrete. The first phase of the proposed research program will include the parameters believed to significantly affect the bond strength: concrete compressive strength, bar size, concrete clear cover, and confinement level. Three universities are participating in this study, namely, University of Texas at Austin, The University of Kansas, and North Carolina State University. Each university will test twenty-two full-scale splice beams for the first phase of the program. |
| Title: | Basalt Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Matrix Composites for Infrastructure Repair |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation (Supplement to RB2C Center) |
| Funding Amount: | $50,000 |
| Dates: | July 2007 – June 2009 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project focuses on the strengthening and upgrade of existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures using a new class of composites made of basalt fibers embedded in a cement-based matrix (BFRC). Basalt fibers are manufactured in a single-stage process by melting naturally occurring basalt rock. The BFRC confining system represents a promising solution to overcome limitations of current fiber-reinforced-polymer (FRP) systems that make use of carbon or glass fibers impregnated with an epoxy resin. The research will first study the mechanical and durability performance of commercial grade basalt fibers and then of the system obtained by combining them with the cementitious matrix. |
| Title: | Developing a Telematics Platform for Bridge Monitoring and Health Prognostics |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation (Supplement to RB2C Center) |
| Funding Amount: | $100,000 |
| Dates: | July 2007 – June 2009 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The approach proposed in this TIE project integrates the extensive research on physics of bridge damages and instrumentation of bridge monitoring system, conducted at the RB2C Center, with the feature-based smart prognostic agent, namely the Watchdog Agent® developed by the IMS Center , to accurately quantify and predict bridge deterioration. The major merit of this work will be the initiation of a combined physics-statistics-based prognostics approach, which expands and integrates the theories and tools developed in RB2C and IMS. The developed methodology will bring about innovation to predict bridge deterioration and provide a general framework for prognostic bridge health management for next-generation intelligent transportation maintenance systems. |
| Title: | Strengthening In-fill Brick Walls with Composite |
| Granting Agency: | E. Fyfe Company |
| Funding Amount: | $89,000 |
| Dates: | 2008-2009 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The research is designed to examine the effectiveness of various strengthening techniques for In-fill brick walls using FRP glass fiber reinforced polymer material. The experimental progress consists of fourteen full scale In-fill brick wall unites subjected to uniform pressure to simulate the pressure and extreme wind loading conditions. Various constraints and anchorage systems were included. |
| Title: | International Workshop on the Use of Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) for sustainable structures |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | $25,000 |
| Dates: | May 2008 |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: |
To organize an International workshop in Egypt to facilitate technology transfer, to disseminate research findings and to identify the methodology that should be undertaken to initiate research collaboration between USA researchers and the Egyptian counterpart on the use of FRP, for strengthening and repair of Civil Engineering infrastructures leading to sustainable structures. |
| Title: | Behavior of Concrete Sandwich Panels Reinforced with CFRP Grid |
| Granting Agency: | AltusGroup |
| Funding Amount: | $47,000 |
| Dates: | August 2006– July 2007 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla Co-PI: P. Zia |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The objective of the study is to determine the behavior of prestressed concrete sandwich panels under the effect of gravity and simulated wind loading conditions. The panels are reinforced transversely by a new innovative carbon fiber reinforced polymer to achieve composite action under the combined gravity and wind load. The research consists of an experimental program which included testing of six full-scale sandwich panels varying from 20 to 40 feet. All panels will be tested under fatigue and monotonic loading conditions to failure. |
| Title: | Development of Repair Systems for Steel Structures and Bridges |
| Granting Agency: | Mistubishi Chemical FP America |
| Funding Amount: | $300,000 |
| Dates: | July 2002 – June 2008 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project investigates the use of high modulus carbon fiber polymer (CFRP) material for strengthening steel structures and bridges. The material in use now is in the form of sheets and strips bonded to the tension surface of steel structures. The first phase includes selection of the appropriate resin and bond characteristics of the material. The second phase is to test large-scale steel monopoles strengthening with different materials, configurations and subjected to static and fatigue loading conditions. The study will be continued to include the environmental effect on the strengthening system. |
| Title: | An Innovative Bridge Deck System |
| Granting Agency: | Martin Marietta Composites |
| Funding Amount: | $300,000 |
| Dates: | July 2002 – June 2008 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The research includes development of an innovative system for highway bridge decks. The system is also suitable for manufacturing trailer walls using small thicknesses. The innovative concept consists of two layers of 2-D fiber pultruded sheets and styrofoam layers in between to provide the required thickness. At a later stage, bundled fibers are inserted in the third direction to increase the strength through-thickness properties of the panels. The system is a modified process for the Z-technology used for the aerospace industry. The test program consists of different tests to examine the material characteristics as well as the behavior of the panel. |
| Title: | Performance of High Strength CFRP for Strengthening Concrete Structures |
| Granting Agency: | NSF – I/UCRC – RB2C – Structural Preservative System |
| Funding Amount: | $50,000 |
| Dates: | 1 year |
| PI: | Sami Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: |
The study is focused on the behavior of high strength CFRP material for strengthening concrete structures. The specific parameters to be considered are flexural strengthening of beams, shear strengthening of beams and flexural strengthening of concrete slabs. |
| Title: | Debonding Failure in CFRP Strengthened Steel Structures |
| Granting Agency: | Australian Research Council |
| Funding Amount: | $ 325,000 (Australian) |
| Dates: | January 2005 – December 2007 |
| PI: | X. Zhao (Monash University)Co-PIs: S. Rizkalla & R. Al-Mahaidi (Monash University) |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The research will make a breakthrough in understanding the bond characteristics between CFRP and steel. It will enhance the capacity of Australian researchers to participate in a new cutting-edge research area, and help create a vibrant new industry for strengthening steel structures. The project will contribute to improved cost efficiency and safety of steel structures thereby contributing to the socio-economic well being of Australia and the USA including road, offshore, building and mining industries. |
| Title: | RC Beams Strengthened with Near Surface Mounted FRP |
| Granting Agency: | Hong Kong National Research Council |
| Funding Amount: | HK $633,695 |
| Dates: | January 2005 – December 2007 |
| PI: | Jin-Guang Teng Co-PIs: S. Rizkalla & B. Taljsten (Sweden) |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project investigates the use of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) material to strengthen reinforced concrete (RC) beams to increase their flexural and shear capacity. The project at Hong Kong will focus on installing these materials into the tension zones of the flexural members using the near surface mounted technique. The project complements the research in progress at North Carolina State University sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Transportation using 43-year old prestressed c-channels and AASHTO girders. The research findings will be greatly enhanced by the collaboration with the University of Technology, Sweden. |
| Title: | Torsional Strengthening of Concrete Structures Using Near Surface Mounted Fibre Reinforced Polymers |
| Granting Agency: | Australian Research Council |
| Funding Amount: | $1,540,818 |
| Dates: | 3 years |
| PI: | R. Al-Mahaidi ( Monash University )Co-PI: S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded July 2007 and completed |
| Abstract: |
The proposed study focuses on the torsional strengthening of concrete flexural members in bridges and buildings using Fibre Reinforced Polymers (FRP). Since the mid 1980s, a significant number of studies on flexural and shear strengthening of beams and axial strengthening of columns have been performed. The area of torsional strengthening has received little attention and thus no reliable data exists to enable the incorporation of the topic in design guidelines. The proposed study will fill the gap that currently exists in the FRP strengthening of RC structures. It will also provide the engineering community with analytical tools for the design of FRPs in torsional strengthening applications. |
| Title: | Characteristics of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Material |
| Granting Agency: | Martin Marietta Composites |
| Funding Amount: | $45,400 |
| Dates: | August 2006– July 2007 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The main objective of the project is to evaluate the structural performance of 3-D FRP sandwich panels. The panels consist of GFRP laminates and foam core where the top and bottom skin GFRP layers are connected together with through thickness fibers. The experimental program focuses on the overall flexural behavior under various loading conditions. The variables are number of GFRP piles, core configurations, density of the through-thickness fibers and the direction of the embedded through-thickness fibers. |
| Title: | Bond Behavior of SAS High Performance Steel |
| Granting Agency: | SAS Stressteel, Inc. |
| Funding Amount: | $70,110 |
| Dates: | April 2004 – July 2007 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | To evaluate the bond characteristics of the SAS high tensile strength steel using end-block and splice beam test specimens according to the ICC specifications. |
| Title: | Shear Behavior of MMFX Stirrups |
| Granting Agency: | MMFX Technologies Corporation |
| Funding Amount: | $50,000 |
| Dates: | July 2006– June 2007 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The objective of this test program is to determine the feasibility of using MMFX reinforcing bars as shear reinforcement for reinforced concrete structures. To achieve this objective, comparative tests will be conducted for shear critical reinforced concrete beams using both conventional steel and MMFX steel reinforcements. The experimental program consists of nine reinforced concrete beams of each series are further divided into 3 groups of 3 beams each. Within each group, the variable would be the amount of shear reinforcement – the minimum, the intermediate, and the maximum amounts. |
| Title: | Evaluation of New Generation of Adhesives for Marine Structures |
| Granting Agency: | IPS Corporation |
| Funding Amount: | $250,000 |
| Dates: | July 2002 – June 2006 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project investigates the behavior and material characteristics of two proposed adhesives designed for marine structures. The project is mainly an experimental study at this stage. The experimental program initially consists of lap shear test to determine the bond characteristics of two adhesives between two surfaces; each consists of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and steel surface. A specially designed insulated room has been constructed at the Constructed Facilities Laboratory to house the instrumentations, which were built to subject the specimens to the specified environment. |
| Title: | Torsion Behavior of Precast Prestressed Ledger Beams |
| Granting Agency: | Metromont Corporation |
| Funding Amount: | $65,000 |
| Dates: | September 2005 – December 2005 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla Co-PI: P. Zia |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | To evaluate the behavior of precast prestressed ledger beams under the effect of eccentric loading of precast beams typically used for parking structures. Two full size beams with spans of 30 and 45 feet will be tested using double T-beams to load the beams up to failure. Four different reinforcement details are considered in this integration. |
| Title: | Evaluation of MMFX Steel for NCDOT Concrete Bridges |
| Granting Agency: | North Carolina Department of Transportation |
| Funding Amount: | $115,000 |
| Dates: | July 2004 – December 2005 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla Co-PI: P. Zia |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | This research project investigates the effectiveness of highly corrosive, resistant, high strength steel reinforcements, recently patented as MMFX Steel, for use in highway concrete bridge applications. The experimental program consists of multi-phases to examine the mechanical properties, effect of bend and corrosion resistance claimed by the manufacturer. The structural performance includes full-scale concrete bridge decks. The analysis will be based on non-linear-finite elements to determine the influence of other parameters, which could affect the design. The research will provide design guidelines for the use of this new tool. |
| Title: | Value Engineering and Cost Effectiveness of Various FRP Repair Systems |
| Granting Agency: | North Carolina Department of Transportation |
| Funding Amount: | $154,243 |
| Dates: | July 2003 – June 2005 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: |
This research program is designed to investigate the feasibility of using the most efficient externally bonded FRP repair/strengthening system to rehabilitate prestressed concrete bridge girders damaged due to accident or collision impact causing loss of prestressing and/or spalling of concrete. The research will investigate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of externally bonded FRP sheet and strip repair/strengthening systems using prestressed channel beams supplied by NCDOT from existing bridges. It will also investigate the use of Near-Surface-Mounted FRP bars and strips to strengthen the same prestressed channel beams along with examining the flexural behavior under the effect of static and fatigue loadings.
|
| Title: | Macromolecular Science and Infrastructure Engineering Joint with Virginia Tech |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | $89,215/year (part of IGERT to Virginia Tech) |
| Dates: | September 2001 – August 2005 |
| Co-PI with Virginia Tech | |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The Integrated Graduate Education Research and Traineeship (IGERT) Program provides the opportunity for our graduate students to conduct an interdisciplinary research in Macromolecular Science and Infrastructure Engineering, focused on polymeric adhesives and composites in civil engineering structures. The program allows collaboration between the following seven departments: Chemistry, Engineering Science, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Wood Science and Marketing from four colleges, including NC State University. It will include exchange of students and faculty members, as well as development of new courses in the field of infrastructures. |
| Title: | GFRP Structural Material Testing for Wraps used for Highway Bridge |
| Granting Agency: | North Carolina Department of Transportation |
| Funding Amount: | $7,000 |
| Dates: | January 2004 – April 2004 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The work involved evaluation of the glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) materials used for wraps of bridge piers on westbound US-64 over the Haw River in Chatham County, North Carolina. Tests were performed using five structural material samples (witness panels) produced during the construction. |
| Title: | Corrosion Inhibitors for Concrete Bridges |
| Granting Agency: | NC Department of Transportation |
| Funding Amount: | $170,681 |
| Dates: | July 2002 – December 2004 |
| PI: | A. Mirmiran Co-PI: S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The research project evaluates the effectiveness of commercially available corrosion inhibitors for remediation purposes in delaying, slowing, stopping or reversing the corrosion process in existing concrete under laboratory conditions of wet-dry cycles and salt water spray, simulating severe field conditions. The results will be used to compare the effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors at different levels of chloride contamination and establish the threshold beyond which surface application does not provide any significant improvement. The project will develop guidelines and specifications for surface treatment using corrosion inhibitors and recommend means to incorporate surface treatment scheduling in bridge inspection and maintenance plans for NCDOT. |
| Title: | Under Construction Bridge Deflection Measurements of Eno River |
| Granting Agency: | North Carolina Department of Transportation |
| Funding Amount: | $7,000 |
| Dates: | February 2003 – April 2003 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla Co-PI: E. Sumner |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | NCDOT Structure Design Unit is currently investigating alternate means to accurately predict girder deflection due to the casting of the concrete decks. The accurate prediction of this deflection becomes increasingly important as the high performance steel and the associated long span structures increases. In addition, the prediction of deflection for adjacent girders of two different stages of construction is important to ensure that the adjacent cast results in an even deck and that the ultimate deck thickness matches that used in the design of the girders.The primary objective of the project is to provide NCDOT a field measurement of the steel girders of the Eno River Bridge in Durham, NC. The measurement will be compared to the predicted deflections. |
| Title: | Selection of Structural Adhesives for Strengthening Steel Structures |
| Granting Agency: | Reichold |
| Funding Amount: | $50,000 |
| Dates: | July 2002 – June 2003 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The research focused on the selection of the most appropriate adhesive for the use of high modulus carbon fiber polymer material to steel surfaces. The also research examined the various techniques which can be used to speed the erection and curing of these adhesives under severe environmental conditions. |
| Title: | Performance of Sandwich Panels Under Axial, Flexural and Shear Loads |
| Granting Agency: | Bally Refrigerated Box, Inc. |
| Funding Amount: | $56,925 |
| Dates: | 2002 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla Co-PI: R. Nunez |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The objective of this investigation is to evaluate the structural performance of Bally’s sandwich panels in accordance with ICBO AC04 “Acceptance Criteria for Sandwich Panels.” The panels are examined under the effect of axial compression load, transverse load and racking shear loads. End condition and panel sizes are randomly selected for typical products line. |
| Title: | Mechanical Properties of MMFX Steel Rebars |
| Granting Agency: | MMFX Steel Corporation of America |
| Funding Amount: | $21,000 |
| Dates: | 2002 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project provides the fundamental mechanical material properties of the new high performance steel reinforcing bars commercially known as MMFX. The investigation included the tensile strength, shear strength, bend effect, bond strength and behavior of the bars in concrete compression members. The work extended to examine the flexural behavior including deflection, cracking and mode failure. Large scale specimens are currently used to examine the development length for different sizes of MMFX bars. |
| Title: | Shear Strength of FRP Anchors |
| Granting Agency: | Fyfe Co., LLC |
| Funding Amount: | $3,170 |
| Dates: | 2002 |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project evaluates the strength and mode of failure of typical joints for aluminum trusses used for highway sign structures and strengthened by carbon fiber-reinforced polymer materials (CFRP). Typical joints have been subjected to membrane tension forces to examine the behavior. The CFRP is wrapped to correct the diagonal member with the bottom chrod members. This phase includes static loading conditions only. |
| Title: | Concept Paper for Establishment of Industry/University Cooperative Research Center, Repair of Buildings and Bridges with Composites (RB2C) |
| Granting Agency: | National Science Foundation |
| Funding Amount: | $10,000/year |
| Dates: | April 2001 – July 2002 |
| PI: | S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The “Repair of Bridges and Buildings Center” (RB2C) is an industry/university/ government cooperative research center sponsored jointly by North Carolina State University, the University of Missouri – Rolla, the National Science Foundation, and participating industrial corporations and government agencies.Faculty members from the Department of Civil Engineering are involved in unique research programs with industrial relevance. Center programs provide research assistants (MS and PhD candidates) with pertinent research topics, the means for carrying out their research, and valuable career-oriented experiences.
Current research in RB2C is focused in what areas?
— Strengthening Concrete Structures and Bridges with Composites. — Innovative composite structural system for Bridge decks. — Performance of different Adhesives for Composite Structures. — Strengthening Steel Towers and Bridges with Composite. |
| Title: | Structural Behavior of Precast Concrete Wall Panels |
| Granting Agency: | Superior Walls of America, Ltd. |
| Funding Amount: | $20,251 |
| Dates: | August 2001 – April 2002 |
| PI: | R. Nunez Co-PI: S. Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The experimental program, conducted at the Constructed Facilities Laboratory (CFL) was designed to examine the structural behavior of precast concrete wall panels produced by Superior Walls of America. The panels were examined under the effect of axial compression loading conditions and racking shear load forces simulating wind loads on the structures. Behavior during and equivalent loading conditions, as well as the mode of failure, were examined and reported. Based on the test results, the company modified some of the structural design and connection details of the wall system. |
| Title: | Performance of Laminated and Unlaminated Glass Under Impact Load |
| Granting Agency: | Clear Defense Sports & Athletics |
| Funding Amount: | $11,140 |
| Dates: | 2001 |
| PI: | S.Rizkalla Co-PI: R. Nunez |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | The project examined the behavior of 1/2 and 5/8″ polymer laminated glass used in hockey arenas as security glazing against the impact of a flying puck or high-speed hockey player, instead of the traditional glass currently used. Typical panel sizes have been tested under static and impact load using drop weight approach. The contact surface was a typical puck and loaded with the appropriate weight and speed through selected heights. |
| Title: | Performance of GFRP Deck |
| Granting Agency: | Martin Marietta Materials |
| Funding Amount: | $11,132 |
| Dates: | 2001 |
| PI: | S.Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | This project examined the structural behavior of new glass fiber reinforced polymer, GFRP, for highway bridge decks produced by Martin Marietta to overcome the serious durability issues of reinforced concrete decks, commonly used. This project provides structural testing of the new deck using AASHTO specifications to simulate truck loads. |
| Title: | Repair of Aluminum Joint with GFRP and CFRP |
| Granting Agency: | Fyfe Co., LLC |
| Funding Amount: | $4,820 |
| Dates: | 2001 |
| PI: | S.Rizkalla |
| Status: | Awarded and completed |
| Abstract: | An innovative technique is introduced to repair the joints of aluminum trusses with GFRP and CFRP. In this project, damage of the welded joint is simulated by grinding the weld before applying a number of FRP layers to the joint in both the longitudinal and circumferential directions of the members. The diagonal members are tested in tension to evaluate the strength of the repaired join. |
Canada Projects
| No | Sponsor | Type | Granted | Length | Amount/yr |
| 1. | NCE – ISIS Canada (not including matching funds from industry) | Grant | 2000 | 1 year | 2,651,000 |
| 2. | NSERC Operating Grant | Grant | 1999 | 4 years | 42,000 |
| 3. | Technology Partnerships Canada Advisory Board | Travel Grant | 1999 | 1 year | 7,000 |
| 4. | Manitoba Department of Highways & Transportation | Contract | 1999 | 1 year | 35,000 |
| 5. | Agri-Food Research & Development Initiative | Contract | 1999 | 2 years | 40,000 |
| 6. | Triple S Community Futures Development Corp. | Contract | 1999 | 2 years | 40,000 |
| 7. | NCE – ISIS Canada (not including matching funds from industry) | Grant | 1999 | 1 year | 2,651,000 |
| 8. | Technology Partnerships Canada Advisory Board | Grant | 1998 | 1 year | 8,000 |
| 9. | NCE – ISIS Canada (not including matching funds from industry) | Grant | 1998 | 1 year | 2,651,000 |
| 10. | Manitoba Department of Highways & Transportation | Grant | 1998 | 1 year | 35,000 |
| 11. | Technology Partnerships Canada Advisory Board Travel | Grant | 1997 | 1 year | 9,000 |
| 12. | Manitoba Department of Highways & Transportation | Grant | 1997 | 1 year | 35,000 |
| 13. | City of Calgary | Grant | 1997 | 1 year | 50,00 |
| 14. | NCE – ISIS Canada (not including matching funds from industry) | Grant | 1997 | 1 year | 2,651,000 |
| 15. | Technology Partnerships Canada Advisory Board Travel | Grant | 1996 | 1 year | 9,000 |
| 16. | City of Winnipeg | Grant | 1996 | 1 year | 60,000 |
| 17. | AECL | Contract | 1996 | 1 year | 33,000 |
| 18. | AECL | Contract | 1996 | 1 year | 65,000 |
| 19. | NCE – ISIS Canada (not including matching funds from industry) | Grant | 1996 | 1 year | 2,651000 |
| 20. | AECL | Grant | 1996 | 3 years | 101,400 |
| 21 | NCE – ISIS Canada (not including matching funds from industry) | Grant | 1995 | 1 year | 1,400,000 |
| 22 | Manitoba Department of Highways & Transportation | Contract | 1995 | 1 year | 35,000 |
| 23 | NSERC Operating Grant | Grant | 1995 | 4 years | 134,400 |
| 24 | NSERC Collaborative Project (Joint with University of Toronto and TUNS) | Grant | 1995 | 3 years | 204,000 |
| 25 | Manitoba Department of Highways and Transportation | Contract | 1994 | 1 year | 64,000 |
| 26 | Flax Council of Canada (Joint with University of Hong Kong) | Contract | 1993 | 3 years | 430,000 |
| 27 | Con-Force (Alberta) (Joint with Univ of Toronto) | Contract | 1993 | 1 year | 166,000 |
| 28 | University of Manitoba (Joint with D. Polyzois and G. Morris) | Grant | 1993 | 1 year | 13,000 |
| 29 | NSERC – CRDA (Joint with Univ of Sherbrooke) | Grant | 1993 | 3 years | 285,000 |
| 30 | Manitoba Hydro (Joint w/D. Polyzois and G. Morris) | Grant | 1992 | 2 years | 197,785 |
| 31 | Manitoba Department of Highways and Transportation | Contract | 1993 | 1 year | 28,000 |
| 32 | NRC-IRAP (Con-Force) | Grant | 1992 | 6 months | 10,782 |
| 33 | NRC-IRAP (Supercrete) | Grant | 1992 | 6 months | 10,782 |
| 34 | NSERC | Operating | 1992 | 3 years | 108,000 |
| 35. | NSERC | Infrastructure | 1992 | 3 years | 105,000 |
| 36. | Transport Institution | Contract | 1991 | 1 year | 35,000 |
| 37 | Transport Institution | Operating | 1990 | 1 year | 50,000 |
| 38. | Manitoba Hydro | Equipment | 1990 | 33,000 | |
| 39. | University of Manitoba | Equipment | 1990 | 65,000 | |
| 40. | Prestressed Concrete Institute (US Funds) | Grant | 1989 | 1 year | 8,000 |
| 41. | NRC – IRAP | Grant | 1989 | 1 year | 32,000 |
| 42. | NSERC | Operating | 1989 | 3 years | 84,000 |
| 43. | University of Manitoba Research & Development Fund | Operating | 1989 | 6 months | 14,000 |
| 44. | Manitoba Hydro | Operating | 1989 | 1 year | 14,960 |
| 45. | The Flax Council of Canada | Contract | 1989 | 3 years | 128,820 |
| 46. | NSERC | Equipment | 1989 | 750,000 | |
| 47. | NSERC | Travel | 1988 | 2 months | 3,410 |
| 48. | Promotion of Science | Travel | 1988 | 2 months | 7,400 |
| 49. | Canadian National Railway | Contract | 1988 | 18 months | 80,000 |
| 50. | Manitoba Hydro | Operating | 1988 | 1 year | 15,280 |
| 51. | Manitoba Hydro | Operating | 1988 | 1 year | 16,280 |
| 52. | Barkman Concrete | Contract | 1987 | 6 months | 6,160 |
| 53. | Con-Force Ltd. | Contract | 1987 | 6 months | 12,320 |
| 54. | Manitoba Hydro | Operating | 1987 | 1 year | 12,040 |
| 55. | Transport Institute | Operating | 1987 | 1 year | 7,200 |
| 56. | Con-Force Ltd. | Contract | 1986 | 6 months | 6,160 |
| 57. | Manitoba Hydro | Operating | 1986 | 1 year | 10,000 |
| 58. | NSERC | Operating | 1986 | 3 years | 51,000 |
| 59. | Transport Institute | Operating | 1986 | 1 year | 8,000 |
| 60. | Centre of Transportation | Operating | 1985 | 1 year | 4,000 |
| 61. | C.M.H.C. | Operating | 1984 | 9 months | 19,440 |
| 62. | Work Study Program | Operating | 1984 | 6months | 2,671 |
| 63. | Transport Canada | Operating | 1984 | 6 months | 15,000 |
| 64. | Canadian National | Contract | 1984 | 3 months | 5,375 |
| 65. | City of Winnipeg | Contract | 1984 | 5 months | 48,000 |
| 66. | Sperry Univac Co. | Contract | 1983 | 3 months | 12,000 |
| 67. | UMSU/Federal Government | Operating | 1983 | 6 months | 2,352 |
| 68. | NSERC | Operating | 1983 | 3 years | 45,000 |
| 69. | Centre of Transportation | Operating | 1983 | 1 year | 7,000 |
| 70. | NSERC International Scientific Exchange Award | Operating | 1982 | 1 year | 4,800 |
| 71. | U of M Research Committee | Operating | 1982 | 1 year | 2,200 |
| 72. | NSERC | Equipment | 1981 | 130,000 | |
| 73. | U of M Research Committee | Operating | 1980 | 1 year | 1,250 |
| 74. | NSERC | Operating | 1979 | 3 years | 29,000 |
| 75. | U of M Research Committee | Operating | 1978 | 1 year | 2,000 |