Behavior of precast single-cell segmental box bridges with external post-tensioning subjected to cyclic loading and temperature changes

The behavior of a precast single-cell segmental box bridge with external post-tensioning is studied based on a 1:3.5 scale model of the Long Key bridge in the Florida Keys. Constant amplitude fatigue loading was applied on the model at a critical location simulating HS20-44 AASHTO truck loading. The performance of the bridge model was evaluated in terms of deflections, strains in concrete and across the joints, and behavior of joints between the segments with increasing number of cycles of fatigue loading. Thermal response of the bridge model was also studied using finite element analysis and the predicted temperature distributions were compared with the experimental values.