Behavior of Prefabricated Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panel System: Optimum Prestress Level

Abstract

This paper reports on results and findings obtained from a nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) of a prototype prefabricated full-depth precast concrete bridge deck panel system under different level of prestressing force. The NLFEA were validated with experimental results obtained from full-scale testing of the prototype bridge system. The benefits of the NLFEA can be highly appreciated when visualizing the substantial time and cost savings, the ability to change any parameter of interest, and the capability of demonstrating any interesting response at any load value and at any location in the system. The most attractive results were: (1) the system is capable of withstanding and maintaining its integrity under eight times the simulated AASHTO truck service load without considerable reduction in its ultimate strength capacity and stiffness, (2) The NLFEA showed that the live load-induced bond stresses for 4 lines prestress level was almost 0.74 times the live load-induced bond stresses for 6 lines prestress level.