Full-Scale Testing of Prefabricated Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panel System

Abstract

The implementation of a prefabricated full-depth precast concrete deck system is an innovative technique that accelerates the rehabilitation process of a bridge deck extending its service life for the purpose of reducing user delays, and community disruptions and lowering its life-cycle costs. A full-scale, two-span continuous prototype bridge 82 ft (25 m) long and 18 ft (5.5 m) wide was designed, constructed, and tested for service load, overload, and ultimate load to study the constructibility and structural performance of the prefabricated full-depth precast concrete bridge deck system. The bridge superstructure is composed of 11 prefabricated full-depth precast concrete panels placed on three steel beams (W18 x 86) and made fully composite with shear connector pockets and shear studs. The experience gained from the sequence of construction events such as fabrication, handling and erection, grouting of transverse joints, longitudinal post-tensioning, and grouting of haunches and shear connector pockets in addition to the results derived from testing a full-scale prototype bridge indicated that a prefabricated, post-tensioned deck system is workable and constructible. Finite element analysis and experimental test results also indicated that a full composite action was maintained between the post-tensioned precast concrete panels and the supporting system; also, no cracks were observed in the transverse joints at the negative moment regions.