The research project explores simple-span precast, prestressed concrete beams made continuous with a cast-in-place connection over the supports. This research aims to improve our understanding of the service and ultimate limit state behaviour of these structures. Special emphasis is placed on restraint moments and diaphragm details. While this type of structure has not been used before in Finland, it has attracted widespread interest from the construction industry.
Background
The first step is to identify the time-dependent material properties of composite structures and evaluate restraint moments. Extensive tests will be carried out to determine the load-bearing capacity of simple-span precast, prestressed structures made continuous. We will investigate the behaviour of the structures in both service and ultimate limit states.
Goal
Due to urbanisation, heavily loaded building structures and congested building sites are becoming increasingly common in Finland. It is often too difficult to have load-bearing girders running horizontally using conventional simple-span precast, prestressed girders. It is common in many parts of the world to construct continuous bridges composed of simple-span precast, prestressed girders and cast-in-place decks.
Girder continuity offers several advantages over simple-span girders, such as reduced bending moments, improved accident and seismic performance, and fewer expansion joints that would require regular maintenance. The goal of this research project is to explore the potential of using simple-span precast, prestressed concrete girders made continuous in building structures.
Funding source
Suomen Betoniteollisuus Ry, Rakennustuotteiden laatu Ry ja SBK
Contact persons
Anssi Laaksonen
Professor
anssi.laaksonen [at] tut.fi
+358 50 540 3231
Ulla Kytölä
Doctoral student
ulla.kytola [at] tut.fi
+358 40 670 6474