Performance and Cost Effectiveness Analysis of the Active External Post Tensioning System

Abstract

The new active strengthening system is an excellent system to replace previous external post tensioning systems without causing additional structural problems. In this system, the compressive forces due to prestressing are absorbed into the reinforcing system by adding the compressive member and no axial force is transferred to the member. In this study, the constructability and performance of this system were analyzed by applying the proposed technologies to a real construction project. Compared with previous systems that have been effective in new construction, such as beam and slab, the new active system can have a ripple effect on new repair and strengthening technologies by adapting it to repair and retrofitting. This system was proven to be an excellent strengthening system in constructability and structural performance since it is very simple, compared to previous systems. Finally, the new active system was proven to result in more than a 10 percent reduction in construction cost compared to previous systems, and positive economic effects can be expected because construction duration is shorter than other systems, and other floors and adjacent spaces in the building can be used during strengthening works.