Design and Implementation of Self-Consolidating Concrete for Connecting Precast Concrete Deck Panels to Bridge Girders

An experimental program was undertaken to develop and evaluate the performance of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) designed for connecting precast concrete deck panels to supporting bridge girders. The effect of curing conditions on early-age expansion and shrinkage of SCC made with expansive materials was evaluated. The effect of batching sequence, concrete temperature, and superplasticizer/water demand on SCC performance was investigated. Field mockup testing was conducted to evaluate the flowability and pumpability of the proposed SCC. Test results showed that the proposed SCC can maintain high filling and passing ability for 2 h and can exhibit adequate stability. The slump flow of the recommended SCC is 730±50 mm (29±2 in.), the L-box blocking ratio is greater than 0.80, the difference between slump flow and J-ring is less than 50 mm (2 in.), and the V-funnel flow time is less than 6 s. The developed SCC mixture was implemented in the construction of the Kearney East Bypass Bridge Project in Kearney, Nebraska, in August 2015. A total of 92 m3 (120 yd3) of the developed SCC was successfully placed through 100-mm (4-in.) diameter grouting/inspection holes located at 1.2-m (4-ft) spacing on the deck surface. The SCC was found to completely fill the shear pockets and haunches between the deck and the girders.