role of polyethylene duct cracking in the failure of post-tensioned cables in Florida segmental bridges

During the past several decades, segmental construction using precast sections has evolved as a preferred design and construction method for bridges. The tendons used to hold the precast sections together are comprised of cables surrounded by a plastic duct filled with grout. Cracking of the tendon's protective plastic duct has been observed in several Florida bridges. An experimental investigation was performed to characterize the material properties of the high density polyethylene ducts used in the past and those being specified nowadays. The degree of cure of the resin, the results of three-point bending tests for unnotched and notched specimens, the coefficient of thermal expansion, and the deformation of a tendon as a function of temperature changes were studied. The effects of the grouting pressure and the void presence in the grout were quantified and the pressurization period was shown to affect significantly the pipe strain.