Tongelbridge
- Eindhoven - The Netherlands
A new pedestrian bridge has been constructed over the Eindhoven water channel in the city of Eindhoven. The bridge had to be removable, lightweight, and durable—conditions that perfectly aligned with the use of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC). With a total length of 26 metres and a deck height of only 0.4 metres, the bridge achieves an exceptional slenderness ratio of 1/55, compared to the standard 1/35 for normal post-tentioned traffic bridges. The pre-cast UHPC girder box deck, featuring wall thicknesses between 80–150 mm, spans 22 metres and meets the high-performance concrete class C170/195. This bridge stands as a remarkable example of an “Ultrabridge” without a load-bearing railing. FDN was responsible for the entire project, including connecting roads, canal walls, parking areas with lighting, and ground improvement works.
Project Description
The Eindhoven pedestrian bridge demonstrates the seamless integration of design, technology, and engineering expertise. Designed to connect two urban areas across the water channel, the bridge not only enhances mobility but also contributes to the city’s modern landscape. Its clean lines and elegant proportions create a visually striking landmark while maintaining structural integrity and long-term durability.
Challenges of the Project
The project required a structure that could be easily removed and reinstalled if needed, while also being lightweight and extremely durable. Achieving such a slender design without compromising strength demanded innovative use of UHPC and precision in pre-casting and assembly. The limited height of the deck posed additional structural challenges, which were overcome through advanced material engineering and careful detailing.
Sustainability
Sustainability was at the core of the project’s concept. The use of UHPC significantly reduces material consumption thanks to its high strength-to-weight ratio and long lifespan. The bridge’s modular design minimizes maintenance needs and facilitates reuse. Energy-efficient lighting and the integration of environmentally conscious landscaping around the site further contribute to a sustainable urban environment.
Innovation & Technology
The Eindhoven pedestrian bridge represents a pioneering application of UHPC technology in the Netherlands. The extremely thin deck profile and absence of load-bearing railings were made possible by the material’s exceptional performance characteristics. Digital modelling, precision prefabrication, and on-site assembly ensured accuracy and efficiency throughout the process. This project showcases how modern technology and innovative materials can redefine traditional bridge engineering.
This Ultrabridge is also innovative due to its cross-section, design, and color. Thanks to the addition of white microsilica, it is the world’s first bridge made of white ultra-high-performance concrete. The bicycle and pedestrian bridge has a span of 21.4 metres and a width of 3.8 metres. The arched bridge deck is constructed of five arched precast box-section elements with a polystyrene core, which are post-tensioned by internal prestressing cables to form the bridge. The maximum height of the deck elements is 0.4 metres. This achieves a slenderness ratio of 1/55. Standard concrete bridges normally have a slenderness ratio of around 1/30. The thickness of the upper deck is only 80 millimetres. The minimum concrete strength class of the deck is C170/200. The railing elements are cast separately and later attached to the deck. The bridge’s railing has a bionic shape with 50-millimetre-thin beams. The railing elements are made of C110/130. The railing does not contribute to the bridge’s total load-bearing capacity. The molds can be used to build bridges up to 50 metres in length.
FDN’s Contribution
FDN managed the project from design to completion, ensuring seamless coordination between engineering, architecture, and construction. The company delivered not only the bridge but also the surrounding infrastructure—connecting roads, canal walls, parking facilities with integrated lighting, and soil improvement at the site. FDN’s holistic approach guaranteed technical excellence, aesthetic coherence, and long-term functionality.
Partners
This project was realized through close collaboration with our client, the Municipality of Eindhoven and specialized contractors. Together, they shared a vision of creating a sustainable, innovative, and elegant bridge that enhances both the functionality and beauty of Eindhoven’s urban environment.