Experimental investigation of connection details for precast deck panels on concrete girders in composite deck construction

• Three connections were compared for composite action for precast bridge construction.
• Confined shear studs provided best performance among connection types considered.
• All connection types exceeded the predicted capacity using the shear-friction theory.
• Design example highlights shear stud clusters for precast bridge construction.

Full-depth precast concrete bridge deck panels are connected to the girders on site by shear connectors to create a composite action and to prevent relative movement between the beam and the precast deck during all loading levels. This research study experimentally investigates different connection details that can provide a load transfer mechanism between concrete girders and precast deck panels to ensure full composite action. Three connection details were investigated: unconfined studs, confined studs and rebar dowels. Six specimens were cast and tested in direct pull-out or push-off tests. The confined studs showed the highest shear capacity at low displacement levels as well as the highest pull-out capacity. However, the three configurations showed higher capacities than expected according to the Canadian highway bridge design code.