Recent Experience with High-Performance Concrete Jointless Bridges in Tennessee

Abstract

Experimental and analytical studies of two high-performance concrete (HPC) jointless bridges with integral abutments built in Tennessee as part of the FHWA’s nationwide initiative to implement HPC in bridge structures are presented. Performance of the two bridges is observed through all stages of construction and service to date, via material testing, bridge instrumentation for both short- and long-term performance monitoring, and live-load testing. The up-to-date observed performance of the bridges reveals the success of such bridge construction. Local contractors were found to be capable of producing concrete to meet increased requirements in strength and durability parameters. In addition, new insights were derived about HPC behavior in such applications, identifying the areas requiring updating of current practice. Load test data revealed that load distribution among the girders is in marked difference from codes of practice. Thermal response of the bridges indicated longitudinal flexibility offered by the jointless construction.

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