HABERLAB

Sponsor: Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This project advances an AASHTO test method for mechanically spliced reinforcing bars used in seismic bridge applications. Existing and new coupler tensile-test data will be analyzed to establish rigid-length factors (β), validate simplified punch-based measurements, and refine monotonic, cyclic, and dynamic testing procedures. The resulting method is intended to be practical for state DOT laboratories and support seismic design of precast bridge columns.

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Sponsor: Florida Department of Transportation 

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This FDOT project investigates cement-based grouted post-installed anchors as alternatives to adhesive systems for concrete structures. Testing will evaluate grout type, anchor geometry, embedment depth, hole preparation, and edge effects, with emphasis on high-strength grouts and UHPC. Results will define failure behavior and support development of FDOT design guidance and specification language for grouted anchorage systems.

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Sponsor: Florida Department of Transportation 

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

Co-PI: University of South Florida (Manawadu)

​Summary: This FDOT project investigates post-installed, post-tensioned anchorage systems using cement-based grouts, including UHPC, for strengthening existing concrete bridge substructures. Analytical modeling and component-level testing will evaluate anchor detailing, embedment depth, filler material, and group effects. The research will develop constructible anchorage concepts, design guidance, and draft FDOT specification language for future bridge rehabilitation applications.

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Sponsor: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

PI: Utah State University (Banerji) 

Co-PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This USDA-supported project investigates the use of hemp fibers to improve the high-temperature performance of high-strength concrete. The USF team is developing practical methods for sourcing, decorticating, retting, chemically treating, and characterizing Florida-grown hemp fibers. The work also evaluates fiber yield, microstructure, crystallinity, tensile behavior, and agricultural waste-stream potential to support future concrete applications and scale-up in sustainable construction materials.

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Sponsor: Florida Department of Transportation 

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This FDOT project evaluates the drivability of prestressed UHPC H-piles through full-scale impact and flexural testing of intact and spliced specimens. Instrumented testing will quantify dynamic stresses, structural response, and failure behavior. Results will establish UHPC-specific driving stress limits, hammer-energy recommendations, and installation protocols to support implementation in FDOT design guidelines, specifications, and future national standards.

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Sponsor: PCI Foundation

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This project aims to advance education and applications of precast and prestressed UHPC structural and non-structural elements in civil construction.

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Sponsor: Florida High-Tech Corridor Early Stage Innovation Fund

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This project aims to develop an innovative solution for repairing failing steel bridges. The long-range commercial aim is to develop a repair system that is versatile and deployable at scale by bridge owners. At this stage, the team has conducted preliminary engineering designs, 3D computer modeling of the system, and additive manufacturing of a small-scale prototype. Through this project, the team will develop a full-scale prototype and complete proof-of-concept structural testing to verify the system behavior and enhance its technology readiness level (TRL).

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Sponsor: Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

Co-PI: University of Central Florida (Mackie)

​Summary: This project aims to bridge the knowledge, accessibility, and implementation gaps related to fragility analysis for bridges subject to non-seismic hazards. Thus, the outcome of this project is to take a significant step towards broader understanding, applications, and use of fragility analysis and PDE for bridge engineering by providing a framework and roadmap for future multi-agency implementation.

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Sponsor: Cor-Tuf UHPC and The Florida High-Tech Corridor

PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary:  This project aims to develop research-based solutions related to UHPC and it applications to highway bridge deck repair. The goal of this project is to generate a better understanding of how UHPC-class materials can be used to enhance bridge deck performance.

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Sponsor: National Academies of Science, Engineering, Medicine, TRB

PI: Greenman-Pedersen Inc (GPI)

Co-PI: University of Colorado

Co-PI: University of South Florida (Haber)

​Summary: This project aim to develop and deliver workshops for state departments of transportation (DOTs) and local public agencies to support the implementation of bridge preservation practices outlined in the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Guide to Bridge Preservation Actions (2021) and the AASHTO Guide to Preservation of Highway Bridge Decks (pending publication)

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