Structures Research
Evaluation of a Highway Bridge Constructed Using High Strength Lightweight Concrete Prestressed Bridge Girders (SRS 2041)
The purpose of this research is to evaluate the behavior of a highway bridge constructed with precast prestressed girders made using high strength lightweight concrete (HSLC). Specific objectives are to (1) assist Georgia DOT materials engineer in developing project specific conventional specifications for high strength light weight concrete, (2) instrument prestressed bridge girders and composite bridge deck, (3) evaluate the girder concrete short and long term properties, (4) measure the short and long-term bridge deflection and girder strain behavior, and (5) determine prestress losses.
Use of HSLC for pretensioned bridge girders will lead to longer spans for given size members and to girders which do not require super-load permits for transportation. These two advantages lead to more economical bridges, to bridges which may be more economical to maintain, and to construction of bridges in regions which require lighter weight sections.
For further information, contact Supriya Kamatkar at (404) 363-7586.
Condition Assessment of Existing Bridge Structures (RP 05-01)
This research will develop GDOT guidelines for condition assessment and evaluation of existing bridge structures by a combination of analysis and load testing. The sub-tasks of the project will include: critical appraisal of current condition assessment procedure; development of statistical databases on resistance and loads acting on structural components and systems; establishment of target reliability benchmarks and targets through an evaluation of selected representative bridges and selected scenarios regarding future performance requirements; and development of reliability-based condition assessment criteria, including sampling criteria to determine in situ strength, the arrangement, intensity, and rate of application of test loads, key structural analysis attributes, and acceptance criteria, such as maximum deflections and rotations, crack widths, and permanent set.
For further information, please contact Stanley Kim at (404) 631-1895.
Stability of Precast Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders Considering Sweep and Thermal Effects (RP 05-15)
The purpose of this research is to determine the stability of precast prestressed bridge girders during their erection. The effect of girder sweep, initial lateral deformation, will be considered in the stability evaluation. Specific objectives are to study stability in three phases as follows: 1. theory of mechanics and elastic stability will be used to investigate lateral-torsional stability of AASHTO Type IV and Bulb-Tee sections; 2. finite element results will be compared with the theoretical solutions; and 3. experimental studies of rectangular, AASHTO Type II, Bulb-Tee 54 girders will be used to evaluate the theoretical and finite element results.
The construction safety of long-span precast concrete girders depends up on the stability of the girders during their erection and during placement of the girder diaphragms and of the concrete bridge deck. Stability failure of long-span girders could result in injury to construction personnel, in closure of highways over which the bridge was being constructed, and in increased costs of long-span girders.
For further information, contact Supriya Kamatkar at (404) 363-7586 or Fax (404) 363-7684.
Corrosion of Steel Bridge Girder Anchor Bolts (RP 07-16)
Investigation of the existing condition of bolts used for anchoring steel bridge girders to concrete pier caps, in order to determine causes of corrosion and deterioration, recommend corrective action, changes in design of bolts, and further research.
For more information, please contact Supriya Kamatkar at 404-363-7586 or fax (404-363-7684.
Rapid Assessment of Alkali Reactivity of Aggregate and Aggregate/Paste Combinations (RP 06-12)
Development and assessment of an accelerated method for evaluating the potential for alkali reactivity in aggregate and aggregate/paste combinations.
For further information, please contact Supriya Kamatkar at 404-363-7586.
Shear Friction and Interface Shear of Ultra High Performance Concrete (RP 07-04)
Determination of the interface shear and shear friction capacity for ultra high performance concrete.
For further information, please contact Supriya Kamatkar at 404-363-7586.