Utilization of high strength concrete for offshore applications

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The current research proposal is focused on the development and optimization of a new crack design criteria and minimum reinforcement suitable for high strength concrete with thick concrete cross sections, thick concrete covers, large diameter reinforcement and relatively high reinforcement ratios. Offshore structures are exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to seawater and sea spray or the structure's existence in the splash zone. An accurate estimate of the crack width and steel reinforcement can result in saving estimated to be in millions of dollars for a single platform. Most of the available expressions for crack width calculations were developed for building structures using normal strength concrete and normal concrete cover. However, offshore structures are built using high strength concrete with thick concrete sections up to 500 mm with 50 - 60 mm concrete cover. Very little research information is published on the crack analysis of high strength concrete with thick concrete section and large concrete cover used for offshore applications. The proposed numerical phase of the investigation will examine mechanisms associated with tension and flexure cracking. Other factors that affect crack width and spacing of cracks under sustained service loads will be examined. Previous important investigations conducted by the applicant on high strength concrete for offshore applications will be utilized to evaluate accurately the cracking properties of offshore structures.