Shear strengthening and model testing of concrete bridge headstocks

Woods, Evan Arthur (2004) Shear strengthening and model testing of concrete bridge headstocks. [USQ Project]

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Abstract

It is inevitable that as concrete bridges begin to age deterioration will become a problem. This may be caused by chemical attack, low quality construction materials, increased traffic flows or overloading. Regardless of the cause of the deterioration, the structures will require restoration. A variety of concrete rehabilitation methods can be used, however further research into the area could provide more suitable and cost efficient techniques. This research project is aimed at developing an effective means of rehabilitating concrete headstocks and relating it to the specific case of the Tenthill Creek Bridge. The research also aims to accurately model the future behaviour of these headstocks in order to gain a better understanding of the deteriorated member. To achieve the aims of the research, three model specimens of the Tenthill Creek Bridge headstocks were developed. These specimens were then preloaded to simulate the bridge condition and then rehabilitated using epoxy crack injection and external post-tensioning. Once rehabilitated, the specimens were again tested. The results obtained from these tests could then be compared against the results obtained from a control specimen. This comparison provided an understanding of the effectiveness of the restoration techniques. From the analysis undertaken on the data that was obtained from the experimental research, it has been discovered the by combining epoxy crack injection and external post-tensioning as a form of rehabilitation, a substantial increase in shear capacity can be expected. By utilising external post-tensioning alone, a small increase in the member's capacity would be expected, however existing shear cracks have major influence on the effectiveness of the system. Hence by initially repairing these cracks by injecting them with epoxy resins, they will no longer have an effect on the post-tensioning system. It has been discovered by this research, the combination of epoxy crack injection and external post-tension, form a cost effective form of shear restoration for concrete members. This rehabilitation system is expected to become more prevalent in the future.


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Item Type: USQ Project
Refereed: No
Item Status: Live Archive
Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: Historic - Faculty of Engineering and Surveying - Department of Agricultural, Civil and Environmental Engineering (Up to 30 Jun 2013)
Date Deposited: 11 Oct 2007 00:14
Last Modified: 02 Jul 2013 22:30
Uncontrolled Keywords: shear strengthening, concrete bridge headstocks, model testing, Tenthill Creek Bridge
Fields of Research (2008): 09 Engineering > 0905 Civil Engineering > 090502 Construction Engineering
Fields of Research (2020): 40 ENGINEERING > 4005 Civil engineering > 400504 Construction engineering
URI: https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/96

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