Project 3.11: Assessment of Micropile-Supported Integral Abutment Bridges

Project 3.11 Abstract:

Integral abutment bridges (IABs) are the preferred method of construction by the Maine Department of Transportation (DOT) and other transportation agencies throughout the United States due to their durability and reduced upfront and life-cycle costs.  Shallow bedrock, commonplace at bridge sites throughout the state of Maine, has precluded the use of conventional driven pile foundations and IABs in some instances. Micropiles are an attractive foundation alternative at shallow bedrock sites where conventional foundation systems (e.g. driven piles) cannot develop sufficient length to achieve fixity and/or adequate geotechnical resistance. These foundation elements can be installed through challenging glacial geology, including boulder material and bedrock. Currently, there is no guidance on the design of micropile-supported IABs, or long-term instrumentation data capturing their performance. The objective of this study is to develop a design methodology and engineering recommendations for the structural and geotechnical design of micropiles for IABs, and to demonstrate that micropiles satisfy strength and stability requirements for IAB applications when shallow bedrock is present.

Sponsor:
Maine Department of Transportation

ADSC-IAFD

Implementation of Research Outcomes:
This project is in its initial research phase. Implementation of research outcomes will be reported upon completion of initial research.

Impacts and Benefits of Implementation:
This project is in its initial research phase. Impacts and benefits of the research will be reported after the implementation phase.

Related Links:
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Downloadable Documents