Flexural behavior of post-tensioned precast concrete girder at negative moment region

This study introduced a post-tensioned precast concrete system that was developed and designed to improve the performance of joints by post-tensioning. Full-scaled specimens were tested to investigate flexural performances at the negative moment region, where the test variables were the presence of slabs, tendon types, and post-tensioned lengths. A specimen with slabs exhibited significantly higher stiffness and strength values than a specimen without slabs. Thus, it would be reasonable to consider the effects of a slab on the flexural strength for an economical design. A specimen with unbonded mono-tendons had slightly lower initial stiffness and flexural strength values than a specimen with bonded multi-tendons but showed greater flexural strength than the value specified in the design codes. The post-tensioned length was found to have no significant impact on the flexural behavior of the proposed post-tensioned precast concrete system. In addition, a finite element analysis was conducted on the proposed post-tensioned precast concrete system, and the tests and analysis results were compared in detail.