Abstract:
This research has studied on continuity behavior of precast prestressed concrete plank by means of static loaded test to failure. The specimens of two continuous spans with two precast planks 5 x 35 cm2 in section with 375 cm in span length. The tests are set at three series; varying percentage of reinforcing steel, joint width, and a control testing of simply support plank with topping. Test results are compared to the analysis by concept of strain compatibility as which concrete model for unconfined compressive stress, using the Hognestad's and the one for confined one using the Popovics, and the stress strain relationship of reinforcing steel are in accordance with the tensile testing conforming to ASTM-A370 standard. Test results have indicated that joint strength increases with amount of the reinforcing steel but the curvature at failure calculated from mid span deflection are decreased. The test result for moment at cracking, yield, ultimate associated with its stiffness have shown pretty good agreement with the analysis to the maximum differently at 5%. The amount of reinforcement apparently control the flexural behavior of the joint in ductility and moment redistribution. The reinforcement not exceed 32% of the amount at balanced condition can provide the ductility index at 3 to from plastic hinge. The minimum reinforcing steel is limited to 25% of the amount at balanced condition to control moment redistribution and cracks at joint. Spaces between precast elements at 5, 10 and 15 cm have shown slightly influenced bending moment redistribution at center line of the support to 7, 11 and 15% respectively. The confinement effect over the support has shown flexural strength to 4% increases, while the ductility index has significantly improved to be neglected in design consideration. In design, the action for ultimate capacity can be 1.75 times of the design live load of simple span, the design method in accordance with currently available standards can be used,but deflection and horizontal shear must be checked by considering are effective inertia at 18% of the gross cross section and the maximum shearing stress at 0.4 square root f'c (ksc) respectively.