Prediction of moment redistribution in continuous prestressed concrete beams

Abstract

The inelastic behavior of statically indeterminate non‐prestressed concrete structures can be predicted by the trilinear theory proposed recently by the author [17]. In this paper, the trilinear theory is further developed to include prestressed concrete by using concepts defined by α, β, and τ. This generalized theory excellently predicts the moment redistribution of two 50 ft‐long continuous prestressed concrete test beams described in [7].

The research reported in this paper shows that the trilinear momentcurvature relationship for prestressed concrete sections may well be employed in predicting the behavior of continuous beams. The analytical method presented in this paper allows a structural engineer to correctly evaluate the response of continuous prestressed concrete beams throughout the loading history.