Sullivan, S (2007) Construction and behavior of precast bridge deck panel systems. PhD thesis, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA.
Abstract
A bridge with precast bridge deck panels was built at the Virginia Tech Structures Laboratory to examine constructability issues, creep and shrinkage behavior, and strength and fatigue performance of transverse joints, different types of shear connectors, and different shear pocket spacings. The bridge consisted of two AASHTO type II girders, 40 ft long and simply supported, and five precast bridge deck panels. Two of the transverse joints were epoxied male-female joints and the other two transverse joints were grouted female-female joints. Two different pocket spacings were studied: 4 ft pocket spacing and 2 ft pocket spacing. Two different shear connector types were studied: hooked reinforcing bars and a new shear stud detail that can be used with concrete girders. The construction process was well documented. The change in strain in the girders and deck was examined and compared to a finite element model to examine the effects of differential creep and shrinkage. After the finite element model verification study, the model was used to predict the long term stresses in the deck and determine if the initial level of post-tensioning was adequate to keep the transverse joints in compression throughout the estimated service life of the bridge. Cyclic loading tests and shear and flexural strength tests were performed to examine performance of the different pocket spacings, shear connector types and transverse joint configurations. A finite element study examined the accuracy of the AASHTO LRFD shear friction equation for the design of the horizontal shear connectors. The initial level of post-tensioning in the bridge was adequate to keep the transverse joints in compression throughout the service life of the bridge. Both types of pocket spacings and shear connectors performed exceptionally well. The AASHTO LRFD shear friction equation was shown to be applicable to deck panel systems and was conservative for determining the number of shear connectors required in each pocket. A recommended design and detailing procedure was provided for the shear connectors and shear pockets.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Thesis advisor: | Roberts-Wollmann, C |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | accuracy; bridge; constructability; fatigue; girders; service life |
| Index terms: | construction process, fatigue, loading, service life, girder, constructability, accuracy, configuration, flexural strength, compression, laboratory |
| Subjects: | construction integration, material properties and characteristics, structural engineering, research management, construction operations, building construction, health conditions and diseases, systems engineering, asset management, professional development |
| Topics: | Construction Materials, Design Practice, Information Management, Engineering Principles, Health and Safety, Site Management, Research Practice, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 2 PC |
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