Structural Effects of Transverse Prestressing in Bridge Decks

Transverse prestressing of bridge decks is an attractive concept with substantial benefits in both economy and improved durability. This report summarizes a series of inter-related physical tests and computer analyses which were conducted to provide necessary information for development of design criteria for transverse prestressing of bridge decks. It addresses such important design areas as the effective distribution of edge prestressing force across a bridge slab as affected by both diaphragm and girder restraints, realistic friction losses in transverse prestressing systems, and the behavior of transversely prestressed decks under typical wheel loadings. The principal attention is focused on slab and girder bridges but analytical results are extended to box girder bridges. Experimental verification of the analysis programs allowed substantial parameter studies to be carried out with reasonable confidence. The results of the major experimental and analytical studies are summarized in this report.