Risk-Based Cost–Benefit Analysis of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete Bridge Columns Under Seismic Hazards and Corrosion

Abstract

The deployment of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is a strategic response to the urgent need for advanced building materials, particularly for the repair and enhancement of aging infrastructure. Highway bridges, which are constantly subjected to high stress, heavy usage, and corrosive environments, can be ideal candidates for UHPC application. The material’s exceptional abrasion resistance and ability to withstand severe weather conditions make it a compelling choice for projects where frequent renovation or maintenance is impractical. This study presents a risk-based cost–benefit analysis (RCBA) comparing UHPC reinforced bridge columns to conventional concrete reinforced bridge columns, focusing on seismic and corrosion hazards. While UHPC has a significantly higher initial material cost than traditional concrete, a simple comparison of initial costs alone is misleading. The RCBA methodology generally evaluates life-cycle cost, including initial construction, long-term agency costs, and user costs. The central question—whether UHPC’s superior performance justifies its higher initial investment—is addressed through RCBA. The presented RCBA is formulated as the ratio of the total life-cycle cost of conventional concrete to that of UHPC. The benefit is estimated as the difference in cumulative risks between bridges with conventional concrete and UHPC bridge columns, with fragility analysis conducted under seismic and corrosion hazards. The proposed approach is illustrated using an existing bridge located in Republic of Korea.