摘要: |
An integral abutment bridge does not have deck joints at the abutments. The backwall is integral with the superstructure and dimensionally the same as the diaphragms cast to the girders. This design eliminates both the need for joints and sealers and the maintenance associated with their use generally resulting in a more economical bridge to construct with lower long-term maintenance costs. Elimination of joints also improves rideability for drivers. However, because of structural continuity, integral construction may introduce secondary stresses into the superstructure. Additional secondary stresses could develop due to thermal changes and gradients, creep and shrinkage of concrete, and settlement. Flexibility and free movement are essential factors in the design of a jointless bridge. Also noteworthy is the fact that integral bridges experience less overall movement than what is theoretically assumed. Thirty-five states in the U.S. have constructed jointless bridges and eleven have reported a very good to excellent overall experience. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) designed and constructed its first prototype semi- integral abutment bridge in 1989. In this design, large longitudinal movements due to expansion and contraction, creep, shrinkage, and settlement are mitigated with an annular space, or gap, constructed between the backwall and the roadway embankment. This annular space is created using a geosynthetic-reinforced embankment constructed underneath the approach slab on the roadway side. To date, DOTD has constructed six prototype semi- integral bridges. These bridges are located in the north, central, and western parts of the state. |