Simplified full-depth precast concrete deck panel systems for accelerated bridge construction

Abstract

A simplified full-depth precast concrete deck panel system for accelerating bridge construction (ABC) is introduced and a finite element analysis (FEA) is conducted to investigate the static and dynamic responses of this conceptual deck system. The FEA results are compared to those of the traditional full-depth precast concrete deck panel system. The comparison results show that the mechanical behavior of the new deck system is different from that of the traditional deck system. The concrete decks in the new system act as two-way slabs, instead of the one-way slab in the traditional system. Meanwhile, the connections in both the longitudinal and transverse directions may need to accommodate the negative moments. Compared to those in the traditional system, the longitudinal nominal stress at middle span increases a lot in the new deck system and the effective flange width varies significantly. In addition, the dynamic results show that the impact factor is influenced by the spacing of connections. Finally, some design concerns of the new deck system are proposed.