Time dependent service load behaviour of prestressed composite tee beams

This paper is concerned with the time dependent service load behaviour of prestressed composite tee beams. The effects of creep and shrinkage of the concrete slab are modelled using the age adjusted effective modulus method and a relaxation approach. The tendon strain is determined considering compatibility of deformations and equilibrium of forces between the tendon and the composite tee beam. A parametric study is undertaken to study the influence of various aspects on the stress, strain and deformations of the concrete slab, steel beam and prestressing tendon. The effect of loading type and tendon relaxation has also been considered for various types of prestressing tendon materials. Recommendations are then made in relation to adequate span to depth ratios for varying levels of prestressing force.