Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) is emerging as a transformative material for bridge construction, offering superior mechanical and structural performance, exceptional durability, and sustainability benefits. Compared to conventional reinforced cement concrete, UHPC enables reduced structural dimensions, making it particularly suitable for long-span and specialized bridge applications that leverage its unique properties. UHPC also presents significant potential for bridges designed for climate-resilient due to its superior durability despite higher cost of construction.  

In pursuit of an innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach tailored to local needs, the World Bank carried out a program to pilot the construction of climate resilient bridges using UHPC in rural areas in Viet Nam. The pilot demonstrated an innovative approach to use local raw materials/resources while also leveraging local contractors/manufacturing factory and transportation to project sites for small rural bridges. The pilot demonstrated UHPC as a viable option for an environmentally friendly and economical material for bridges that are resilient to natural hazards. 

This mini-forum will feature presentations and discussions on the application of UHPC in Viet Nam and beyond. It will provide an excellent opportunity to engage with experts and practitioners from Viet Nam in the areas of design and construction of UHPC. The project was supported by the World Bank and its Japan Program for Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Management in Developing Countries under GFDRR. 

Program

Welcome and Introduction 
Keiko Saito
Sr. Disaster Risk Management Specialist, GFDRR, The World Bank 

Phuong thi Minh Tran 
Sr. Transport Specialist, Viet Nam Transport Team, The World Bank 

The Local Bridge Construction and Road Asset Management Operation in Viet Nam & UHPC Bridge Piloting
Chi Kien Nguyen　
Transport Specialist, Viet Nam Transport Team, The World Bank  

Phuong thi Minh Tran
Sr. Transport Specialist, Viet Nam Transport Team, The World Bank 

UHPC Application: Thang Long Bridge Deck Repair & Standard Development
Thuan Duc Nguyen　
Deputy Head, Appraisal Department, Department for Roads of Viet Nam

Toan Van Pham
Deputy Director, Project Management Unit 3

Dr. Viet Ba Tran
Vice President and Secretary General, Viet Nam Concrete Association

Panel Discussion Q&A

Closing Remarks

Moderator  
Shige Sakaki
Sr. Transport Specialist, Viet Nam Transport Team, The World Bank