Flexural behavior of precast concrete segmental beams with hybrid tendons and dry joints

• Flexural behavior of precast concrete segmental bridges with hybrid tendons and dry joints was studied.
• Testing parameters include tendons types, load locations and joint numbers.
• It is aimed for accelerated bridge construction.
• Segmental beam specimens show satisfied load capacity and acceptable ductility.

Precast concrete segmental bridges (PCSBs) with hybrid tendons and dry joints might be the most competitive solution for achieving the advantages of rapid construction and favorable structural performance. A series of tests were carried out to investigate the flexural behavior of PCSBs with hybrid tendons and dry joints. Influences of hybrid tendons, load locations and joint numbers were studied. For comparison purpose, a monolithic beam with hybrid tendons was also tested. The deflections, ultimate loads, stresses of prestressing strands and failure modes were investigated. At the ultimate stage, the stresses of all tendons are greater than 1500 MPa. The flexural strength of fully segmental beams with hybrid tendons of S-4 is 30% less than that of the monolithic beam with hybrid tendons of M-1. Due to a high concentration of rotation and deflection at individual joints, the flexural strength of the partially segmental beam with hybrid tendons of S-2 is 12.8% less than that of the fully segmental beam with hybrid tendons of S-4. The segmental beam with hybrid tendons can achieve satisfied flexural capacity and better ductility. The research outcome will help in understanding the roles of types of prestressing tendons and joints numbers on the flexural performance of the segmental bridges.