Material Characterization of Field-Cast Connection Grouts

Accelerated bridge construction methods can help increase safety and minimize the inconveniences to the traveling public. Many new construction methods have been investigated and implemented using prefabricated subassemblies on bridges. These methods have shown great promise because prefabricated components can be produced in a controlled environment, resulting in superior products that both allow for expedited construction schedules and display robust, durable performance. The most critical field construction process for prefabricated subassemblies is the completion of the connections. Short-term construction-related issues along with long-term serviceability problems have been attributed to a variety of causes, including construction techniques, materials, and poor designs. This research effort investigated the performance of a variety of different material categories that may be used in field-cast highway infrastructure connections. The objective of this research is to evaluate grout-type materials for potential use in field-cast connections deployed as part of the prefabricated bridge elements and systems (PBES) bridge construction concept. Topics investigated included mechanical strength, shrinkage, bond strength, durability, and cost.