Abstract
This paper deals with behaviors of PSC-Beam bridges according to continuity of spans. To analyze the long-term behavior of bridges, an analytical model which can simulate the effects of creep, the shrinkage of concrete, and the cracking of concrete slabs in the negative moment regions is introduced. To consider the different material properties across the sectional depth, the layer approach in which a section is divided into imaginary concrete and steel layers is adopted. The element stiffness matrix is constructed according to the assumed displacement field formulation, and the creep and shrinkage effects of concrete are considered in accordance with the first-order algorithm based on the expansion of the creep compliance. Correlation studies between analytical and experimental results are conducted with the objective to establish the validity of the proposed model. Besides, many uncertainties related to the continuity of spans are analyzed to minimize deck cracking at interior supports.
