UHPFRC in Architecture

Master thesis (2014)

Authors

Contributors

A. Snijders (mentor)
Programme
Architectural Engineering (Architecture and the Built Environment) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2014 Vermeulen, B.
UHPFRC Structural design Architectural design UHPC Sports Complex GSA Analysis
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Published Date

15-04-2014

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Programme

Architectural Engineering

Abstract

The first part of this paper provided a brief overview of how UHPFRC is made and why it can achieve such high mechanical properties. At this moment UHPC can easily achieve compressive strengths of 200 MPa, which is about seven times higher than ordinary concrete. However the tensile strength remains normative for structural design. The flexural tensile behavior is strongly influenced by adding fibers to the mix. Flexural strength can go up to 37 MPa (Naaman and Wille, 2012), which is ten times higher than normal concrete. In some cases this means that steel reinforcement is obsolete. This opens up a whole new way of designing with concrete. Continuing with knowledge of the material some UHPFRC applications were briefly described and analyzed in the second part. Structural applications in bridges show us the potential for lightweight, high performance and durable design. The amount of architectural applications however, is very limited. Nevertheless architects can be truly inspired by some of the work of structural engineers. Some of these architectural inspirations are included in the appendix. Some designs that were inspired by the references and knowledge of the material were analyzed with GSA Oasys. The results served as a direct feedback on the designs and give an indication on how slender they could theoretically become. However these analyses are indicative only and are not officially certified calculations. The designs are also theoretical and feasibility is yet to be researched. Nonetheless the analyses do provide insight in structural behavior of UHPFRC in general and also in comparison to conventional materials. Overall conclusion for architects is that it is evident that UHPFRC can truly create certain qualities in design that is only feasible in UHPC. For example in the appearance of extremely slender arches, or in complex filigreeing façade elements. This research has provided a fundamental base for further architectural developments and the search for elegance in concrete design.