Experimental evaluation of a continuous precast pressed concrete bridge

Abstract

A laboratory model (1:2 scale) of a midspan segmentally erected continuous concrete bridge which combines precast beams and cast in place top slab is described. Cracking of concrete, changes on the cross sections and variations on the static scheme throughout the construction. give place to important stresses and internal forces redistributions, so that time dependent effects must be carefully taken into account. A description of the laboratory test, as well as the constructions process and the instrumentation of the bridge tested is made. The most relevant experimental results are discussed and compared with analytical predictions using non-linear time dependent computer models. Conclusions are drawn about the structural behavior and some design recommendations are made based on the experimental and analytical results.