Strengthening multiple span simply-supported girder bridges using post-tensioned negative moment connection technique

A post-tensioned negative moment connection technique is proposed to strengthen old multiple span simply-supported T-section reinforced concrete (RC) girders. In this technique, old concrete is removed from girder ends and flanges, a diaphragm is placed between the two adjacent girder ends over the interior support and negative moment steel strands are installed in new cast-in-place concrete and post-tensioned to make continuity. A total of six two-span simply-supported T-section RC girders were cast and five of them strengthened using the provision of the proposed post-tensioned negative moment connections. Both laboratory tests and nonlinear finite element (FE) analysis were conducted to investigate the structural performance of the strengthened RC girders. The moment redistribution in the strengthened continuous RC girders was also measured and is discussed. It is shown that the proposed post-tensioned moment connection technique can reliably transfer the negative moment over the support and markedly increase member stiffness and the load-carrying capacity of existing multiple span simply-supported RC girders. The validity of the FE analysis was also demonstrated through comparisons with experimental results.