Refinement of the Inverted T-Beam Bridge System

About the project:

Researchers at Virginia Tech are collaborating with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to develop an innovative prestressed concrete Inverted-T bridge superstructure system. The concept was validated through full-scale laboratory testing and has been piloted in two Virginia bridges to date. The current Inverted-T shape works for span lengths around 40 ft, but changes in the cross-sectional geometry should allow the system to work for span lengths from 20 ft. up to 75 ft. This project will seek to extend the range of applicable span lengths, optimize the concrete mix design for the integral wearing course, and explore elimination of horizontal shear connectors and splice connections between adjacent beams. The work will support the development of design standards and specifications to be issued by VDOT to govern design and construction of Inverted-T bridges.

Project Team

Principal Investigators