Title: Effects of Axial Tension on Shear-Moment Capacity of Full-Scale Reinforced Concrete Girders

Author(s): Matthew T. Smith, Daniel A. Howell, Mary Ann T. Triska, and Christopher Higgins

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 111

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 211-222

Keywords: axial load; bridges; full-scale testing; reinforced concrete; shear; tension

DOI: 10.14359/51686534

Date: 1/1/2014

Abstract:
Many cast-in place reinforced concrete deck-girder (RCDG) bridges remain in the national inventory, and routine bridge evaluations are conducted to ensure operational performance. Current codes for rating and evaluation of bridges permit analysts to neglect axial force effects due to temperature and shrinkage effects when calculating load ratings for bridge components with well distributed reinforcement. The proportions and details of many older bridges, however, are unlikely to be considered well detailed. Additionally, available data regarding the behavior and strength of large girders subjected to axial tension is lacking. To develop new data on the influence of axial load on the shear-moment behavior of reinforced concrete girders, seven full-scale specimens were designed, constructed, and tested under combined axial tension and transverse applied forces until failure. Results showed that axial tension and the presence of flexural cutoffs reduced member stiffness and strength. Using these results, different analytical and design methods were compared with assessed member strength.