Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panels Research Articles

Behavior of Horizontal Shear Connections for Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Decks on Prestressed I-Girders

This article reports on a study of the horizontal shear resistance of the connection between full-depth precast concrete bridge deck panels and prestressed concrete girders. This connection consists of isolated shear connectors extending from the precast I-girder into a block-out pocket in the precast deck panel. The blockouts and the haunch between the panel and the beam are grouted. In the study, 36 push-off tests were performed to investigate the strength and behavior of the connections. The factors investigated included type of grout, haunch height, and area of reinforcing steel crossing the interface. In addition, several alternate shear connector details were tested. Results showed that there was no significant difference in peak shear stress between specimens with 1, 2, and 3 in. haunch heights. The extended stirrups must be detailed to have a minimum of 5 in. embedment into the deck panel. The alternate shear connectors in this study are viable for use with the precast panel system. Proper embedment and spacing of connectors will ensure yielding of the steel and ductile behavior of the interface. The authors conclude that, of currently known horizontal shear resistance equations, the one presented in the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications is the best predictor of the strength of the specimens.

Composite Behavior of Shear Connections in Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panels on Steel Stringers

This study investigates the composite behavior of full-depth precast concrete bridge deck systems under static loading. Entailed is a detailed evaluation of quarter-scale and full-scale system components, with a focus on the number of pockets per specimen, number of studs per pocket, and the benefits of a grouted haunch for the connection between the precast slab and its supporting system.

Analysis of Full Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Deck Panels

Several researchers have reported on the use of full depth precast concrete bridge deck panels for the replacement and rehabilitation of deteriorated bridge decks. They presented the advantages of the system and generally recommended viable alternatives to many aspects of the system. However, a critical aspect of the system in terms of design is the consideration of longitudinal post-tensioning. This paper presents the analysis of selected simply supported and continuous bridges using finite element modeling of the structural system. The objective of this analytical study was to determine the amount of post-tensioning needed in the longitudinal direction to secure the tightness of the adjacent transverse joints and to keep them in compression.