Title:
Precast Panel Composite Bridge Decks
Author(s):
F. E. Fagundo, H. Tabatabai, K. Soongswang, J. M. Richardson, and E. G. Callis
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
7
Issue:
5
Appears on pages(s):
59-65
Keywords:
bridge decks; composite construction (concrete to concrete); cracking (fracturing); field test; finite element method; highway bridges; models; precast concrete; prestressed concrete; reinforced concrete; shear stress; structural analysis
DOI:
Date:
5/1/1985
Abstract:
Composite bridge-deck construction gainedpopularity over the past decade because of its cost-effectiveness in comparison to conventional cast-in-place construction. Precast, prestressed panels span between the girders and are used initially as forms, but then act compositely with the cast-in-place surface topping to support traffic loads. Some questions that needed to be answered on this system were the causes of cracking in some of these decks; structural adequacy in the cracked condition; life expectancy; structural performance in comparison to conventional concrete construction; and remedial actions for cracked decks. Results show that with proper construction techniques and careful attention to details, these panels will perform effectively over a normal life span.