New bridge construction within two weeks

With new bridge construction materials, industrial production methods and an effective construction process, we can use a new bridge within 2 weeks after starting construction. This idea was raised in a recent thesis by Chalmers University of Technology.

A pilot study of the concept of a new I-shaped bridge is reported in Peter Harryson's doctoral thesis on concrete construction work at Chalmers University.

The bridge consists of extremely light sections that are assembled on site. Loaded components include V-shaped fiberglass beams reinforced with carbon fiber at the bottom. The beams impact on a thin bridge deck that is prefabricated with reinforced concrete with high strength. Because these materials are very sustainable, they have the advantage of a life cycle perspective and are extremely suitable for industrial construction. However, the construction of new bridges is still not included in the use of these materials.

Peter Harryson said, 'This new type of bridge is a construction project that is expected to be carried out in a few years in the future, but research shows that it is still possible to build this type of bridge if this idea is outlined. Further elaborate. However, the current economic conditions are being constrained by significant investment capital - the factor needed to start construction - and because the composite fiber materials are quite expensive. "

The idea of ​​a new bridge - bridge of letter I. (Photo: Chalmers Technical University)

Currently, the new type of bridge is estimated to be more than twice the type of conventional bridge. But the economic potential of a new idea can be significantly raised if economic calculations are carried out in a different way. Besides the convenience of shorter construction time, new types of bridges also have some other benefits such as the life expectancy of the bridge and the bridge construction environment is more appreciated.

This project is part of a research program 'Roads - Bridges - Tunnels' by Vinnova (Swedish government's Agency for Innovation Systems). Peter Harryson is a doctoral student in industry at the Swedish Road Administration, which is also the funding agency for this study.

The thesis is called Industrial Bridge Engineering - structural inventions for bridge construction work more effectively. Peter defended his thesis on May 29 last.