Investigation of Panel-to-Panel Connections and Block-outs for Full-Depth Precast Concrete Bridge Decks

Report No: 15-R5

Published in 2015

About the report:

Experimental tests were performed at Virginia Tech to investigate transverse panel-to-panel connections and horizontal shear connector block-outs for full-depth precast concrete bridge deck panels. The connections were designed for a deck replacement project for a rural three-span continuous steel beam bridge in Virginia. Two reinforced and four post-tensioned connections were designed and tested in cyclical loading. Each connection was tested on a full-scale, two-beam setup in negative bending with a simulated HS-20 vehicle. The block-outs for the horizontal shear connections were also scrutinized during construction and testing. Several surface treatments were investigated to determine the best strategy to limit cracking and leakage at the grout-concrete interface. The strain profile, cracking patterns, and ponding results are presented for all specimens.

The reinforced connections and two post-tensioned connections with 167 psi initial stress experienced cracking and leaked water by the end of the cyclic loading regime. In two connections post-tensioned with an initial compressive stress of 340 psi, the tensile stress in the deck under full live load remained below approximately 3√(f'c). These transverse connections did not leak water, did not have full-depth cracking, and maintained a nearly linear strain distribution throughout the design life. Full-depth deck panels may be effectively used on continuous bridges if post-tensioning force is applied to the transverse connections to keep the total tensile stress (remaining prestress minus live load stress) below 3√(f'c) .

The block-outs with a sand-blasted surface or an epoxy primer combined with a grout that met the requirements recommended by Scholz et al. (2007) had only slight water leakage and had smaller cracks at the grout-concrete interface than the control samples. These surface treatments are recommended for best long-term performance.

Documents

15-R5

_{Disclaimer Statement:The contents of this report reflect the views of the author(s), who is responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Commonwealth Transportation Board, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. Any inclusion of manufacturer names, trade names, or trademarks is for identification purposes only and is not to be considered an endorsement.}

Authors

Matthew K. Swenty, Thomas E. Cousins, Ph.D., P.E., Carin L. Roberts-Wollmann, Ph.D., P.E.

Last updated: November 12, 2023