Ancient structural element leads to new ideas in bridge building
Tuesday, June 5, 2012 - 07:00
in Physics & Chemistry
(Phys.org) -- Led by Dr. John J. Myers, S&T researchers are working with designers at HC Bridge Co. to combine an ancient concrete arch form - dating back to the Roman empire - with a composite shell to create bridge beams that are designed to last 100 years. Tucked inside durable, fiberglass composite shells, the lightweight beams are supported by a concrete arch and anchored by seven wire tendons, which serve as the system's tension tie.