Abstract
Precast R.C. slabs are being used widely for the construction of bridge structures due to their simplicity in construction processes. However, one of the disadvantages in precast R.C. slabs is the existence of transverse joints between two precast slabs. The transverse joints are structurally fragile and the task of strengthening the joints is difficult one due to their structural discontinuity. The aim of this study was to improve the behavior of transverse joints between precast R.C. slabs by introducing prestress with external cables. Three steel-concrete composite bridge specimens, which were prestressed with the external cables anchored on steel girders, were fabricated in the laboratory. Both pretension and post-tension methods were applied to introduce prestressing on the concrete slab with a straight tendon arrangement. Static tests were conducted at service load and ultimate load test was performed to evaluate punching shear capacity of the transverse joint. In this paper, two prestressing methods were tested and their effects were evaluated with respect to the elastic behavior and ultimate loading capacity of the transverse joints.