FULL-DEPTH MODULAR PRECAST, PRESTRESSED BRIDGE DECKS

Abstract

Precast modular deck construction has been used successfully since 1967. It is still used in a modest but effective fashion, as exemplified by several installations. The details used to connect the panels to the supporting structures, provide composite action, permit vertical adjustment, and develop shear resistance between adjacent panels are critical. A deck protection system to prevent chemical penetration should be incorporated in the design. Construction costs were estimated for four design examples and compared with costs of conventional cast-in-place construction. In each case, the modular system proved to be more economical. Benefits of precast, prestressed decks include greater structural efficiency, reduction in the number of support elements required, less construction time, reduction in interruption to traffic for replacement decks, potential for increasing capacity of existing structures through reduction in dead load, and better quality control. (Author)