The effects of the shape of a precast concrete deck on the ultimate strength of study shear connectors

Abstract

Due to the material properties of filler for shear pockets and the bedding layer between a precast deck and steel girder, the behavior of stud connectors in a composite bridge with a full-depth precast deck is different from that of a Cast-in-place concrete deck. In particular, the bedding layer causes a decrease in the ultimate strength of stud shear connectors. Therefore, more stud shear connectors are needed in comparison with Cast-in place concrete decks, In this study, push-out tests were conducted to evaluate the efficiency of shapes of precast concrete decks, which were developed to improve the ultimate strength, decreased by the bedding layer. Test results show that were very effective in improving the decreased ultimate strength of the stud shear connectors.