An Investigation on Transversely Prestressed Concrete Bridge Decks

This study is concerned with the development of design specifications for the use of transverse post-tensioning in concrete bridge decks. The ultimate goal behind this proposal is to improve the durability of concrete bridge superstructures. Experimental results from previous studies are used to validate the analytical models implemented in the development of the design specifications. It is found that the required distribution of transverse post-tensioning is such that different application levels of prestressing are required in regions containing the interior and exterior (or outermost) diaphragms. It is also concluded that the magnitude of such transverse forces is a function of the girder boundary conditions, the axial stiffness of the diaphragms, the skew angle of the deck, and the position of the diaphragms/stiffener with respect to the edge of the deck. Simplified design guidelines are developed for use in INDOT. Examples are included to illustrate the suggested methodology and to analytically validate its performance.