PRESTRESS LOSSES AND THE ESTIMATION OF LONG-TERM DEFLECTIONS AND CAMBER FOR PRESTRESSED CONCRETE BRIDGES (FHWA-OK-07-08)

Abstract

Prestressed concrete, an ideal combination of concrete and high strength steel, has emerged as an efficient material for modern construction. The construction of prestressed concrete bridges as a standard practice in the United States dates back to 1949 when the Philadelphia Walnut Ave Bridge was constructed. The technical and economical benefits of prestressed concrete permits longer spans and increased girder spacing. Complimenting this, higher performance concrete can feature lower water to cementious materials ratio (w/cm) and the inclusion of supplemental cementious materials that promote a dramatic improvement of concrete quality and durability.