Research on innovative reinforcement of prestressed T-beam bridge

PurposeIn order to understand the status of the bridge reinforcement process, the construction process monitoring of the reinforced bridge is carried out. The T-beam bridge was tested using the truck loading test. The displacements and concrete strains of the bridge at mid-span were measured during the test.Design/methodology/approachThis paper describes an innovative technique, external prestressing, used to strengthen a 36-year-old prestressed T-beam bridge. This paper introduces the construction process of the prestressed reinforcement method, and makes a theoretical analysis of the reinforced bridge through the establishment of the reinforcement model.FindingsThis study showed that the structural capacity and performance of the bridge were enhanced with externally prestressed steel strand strengthening.Originality/valueThe innovative reinforcement method of prestressed T-shaped bridge is put forward, which has guiding significance for similar bridge reinforcement and maintenance.