EFFECT OF SHEAR CONNECTORS DISTRIBUTION AND REINFORCEMENT LAYOUT AT GROUTING POCKETS ON THE CONNECTION BETWEEN PRE-CAST CONCRETE GIRDERS AND PRE-CAST DECK PANELS

Precast concrete decks have begun to revolutionize the bridge design industry due to their rapid constructability, reduction in overall mobilization and high quality control. According to international codes it was found that distribution of shear connectors is one of the most important factors that has an effect on the capacity of the connection. Previous research and design guidelines suggest the use of two different approaches to quantify the required interfacial shear strength, namely based on the maximum compressive forces in the flange at mid-span or the maximum shear flow at the supports. The research objectives can be summarized in evaluating the structural behavior and load carrying capacity experimentally and analytically for precast girders and precast slabs connected through shear connectors in grouting pockets in the case of regular or concentrated shear connectors distribution at support. In addition the effect of adding horizontal rebars around the grouting pockets in the deck slab was determined. Seven composite RC T-beams with 2.00 m span were tested under static loading conditions.