| Past research at Idaho State University showed that Titanium Alloy Bars (TiABs) offer good ductility, high strength, superior corrosion resistance, lower overstrength, and better fatigue performance compared to high-strength steel bars. TiABs have recently been incorporated in retrofitting of several bridges in Oregon and Texas to increase the shear and flexural capacities of concrete beams using Near-Surface Mounted (NSM) techniques. This research explores the use of Titanium Alloy Bars (TiABs) in construction of durable and structurally sound concrete bridges with a service life in excess of 100 years. The concept for an innovative pier cap reinforced with longitudinal TiABs instead of normal rebars is presented. To validate the concept, two specimens with similar moment capacities, are designed and constructed in accordance with the AASHTO LRFD Design Standards. One of the specimens is reinforced with TiABs and the other with normal rebars. The specimen with normal rebars serves as the benchmark to compare structural performance under flexural action. Both specimens are tested to the failure points under three-point bending test protocol in the Structural Laboratory (SLAB) at Idaho State University. Overall, both specimens performed well. The research identified bond strength between TiABs and concrete to be an issue. This can be overcome by using pseudo-threaded TiABs instead of smooth bars. Results and observations from the large-scale testing are discussed. Key Words: Innovative materials, Durability, Large-scale testing, Flexural behavior, Titanium alloy bars, Ti-6Al-4V, Bridges, Pier cap |