A Strong Research & Development Legacy

Since Eugène Freyssinet’s invention of prestressed concrete in 1928 to the introduction of connected prestressing in 2020, innovation has been at the core of our mission.

Our research and development efforts, in collaboration with external partners, focus on two key areas:

  • A proactive R&D strategy that has driven major technological advancements and continues to shape the future of civil engineering.
  • The ability to design innovative, customized solutions that address customer needs and project challenges.

Innovation at Freyssinet reflects our commitment to pioneering solutions that are both effective for our clients and aligned with sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Innovation at Freyssinet

Protecting Structures

Freyssinet continuously innovates to enhance the protection of steel against corrosion caused by seawater, pollution, and moisture infiltration. Our advancements include improved stay cable anchorage protection, enhanced prestressing cable durability, higher-quality duct materials, and low-water-content injection grouts for long-term resilience.

Repairing and Extending the Life of Existing Structures

As infrastructure ages, the demand for renovation continues to grow, making innovation crucial. We develop cutting-edge techniques for repairing and protecting concrete, wood, and steel, including reinforcement bar treatments, high-density carbon fiber fabrics, and fast-curing resins designed for rapid traffic reopening. Our research also explores advanced methods for lifting and replacing structural components efficiently.

Extending the Lifespan of New Structures

Freyssinet’s prestressing and cable-stay systems are engineered to last 100-120 years, depending on environmental conditions. We are also developing next-generation bearing devices with low-friction, low-wear sliding materials that can support increasing loads while simplifying maintenance. Additionally, we are integrating structural reinforcement with cathodic protection to enhance long-term durability.

Cable-Stayed Structures: Advancing Our Flagship Technology

Enhancing Structural Longevity: We are adapting our anchoring systems to accommodate 2160 MPa steel strands—an upgrade from the current 1860 MPa standard—while improving damper efficiency and developing innovative anti-vibration solutions to extend the lifespan of cable-stayed structures.

Cold-Weather Safety: To prevent hazardous ice buildup and falling ice, we are integrating advanced de-icing systems into stay cables, enhancing safety in regions with harsh winter conditions.

Fire, Explosion, and Vandalism Protection: We are reinforcing stay cables to withstand extreme conditions, including vehicle fires on bridge decks, ensuring greater structural resilience and public safety.

Aesthetic Enhancements: Our LED lighting solutions bring a new level of visual appeal to cable-stayed bridges, transforming them into architectural landmarks.

Sustainable Recycling Solutions: As part of our commitment to sustainability, we are developing industrial processes to separate and recycle steel cables from their protective ducts when stays are replaced, reducing material waste and promoting reuse.

iconic structures such as the ORB Bridge - Freyssinet USA project

Innovations in the Field

Innovation doesn’t just happen in research labs—it happens on the job site. Every project presents unique challenges, from safety and climate conditions to geology, scheduling, and site accessibility. Freyssinet tackles these complexities with a combination of expertise, creativity, and customer focus:

  • Engineering Expertise: Our deep technical knowledge spans every level of the organization, from our local subsidiaries to our Technical Department and industrial unit, Freyssinet Products Company.
  • A Culture of Ingenuity: We foster a mindset that encourages creativity and smart problem-solving, empowering our teams to develop unconventional solutions.
  • Customer-Driven Innovation: We collaborate closely with our clients to design tailored, effective solutions that address their specific needs and project constraints.

 

Allegiant Stadium - Innovation at Freyssinet

Want to learn more about our innovative projects?

We have been at the forefront of providing specialized civil engineering technology, material supply, and installation for small and large projects in the United States.
Discover Our Projects