A literature review concerning the objectives of the project was completed. A significant number of published papers, reports, etc., were examined to determine the effectiveness of full depth precast panels for bridge deck replacement. A detailed description of the experimental methodology was developed which includes design and fabrication of the panels and assembly of the bridge. The design and construction process was carried out in cooperation with the project Technical Review Panel. The major components of the bridge deck system were investigated. This includes the transverse joints and the different materials within the joint as well as composite action. The materials investigated within the joint were polymer concrete, non-shrink grout, and set-45 for the transverse joint. The transverse joints were subjected to direct shear tests, direct tension tests, and flexure tests. These tests exhibited the excellent behavior of the system in terms of strength and failure modes. Shear key tests were also conducted. The shear connection study focused on investigating the composite behavior of the system based on varying the number of shear studs within a respective pocket as well as varying the number of pockets within a respective panel. The results indicated that this shear connection is extremely efficient in rendering the system under full composite action. Finite element analysis was conducted to determine the behavior of the shear connection prior to initiation of the actual full scale tests. In addition, finite element analysis was also performed with respect to the transverse joint tests in an effort to determine the behavior of the joints prior to actual testing. The most significant phase of the project was testing a full-scale model. The bridge was assembled in accordance with the procedures developed as part of the study on full-depth precast panels and the results obtained through this research. The system proved its effectiveness in withstanding the applied loading that exceeded eight times the truck loading in addition to the maximum negative and positive moment application. Only hairline cracking was observed in the deck at the maximum applied load. Of most significance was the fact that full composite action was achieved between the precast panels and the steel supporting system, and the exceptional performance of the transverse joint between adjacent panels.

This book is dedicated to “High-Performance Eco-Efficient Concrete” and concrete fatigue behavior, more sustainable construction materials, capable of complying with quality standards and current innovation policies, aimed at saving natural resources and reducing global pollution. The development of self-compacting concretes with electric arc furnace slags is a further achievement. In addition, the technical and economic viability of using coarse recycled aggregates from crushed concrete in shotcrete, enhanced quality and reduced on-site construction time are the basic features of prefabricated bridge elements and systems, biomass bottom ash as aluminosilicate precursor and phosphogypsum were discussed. On the other hand, basalt fiber improving the mechanical properties and durability of reactive powder concrete, alkali-activated slag and high-volume fly ash and the potential of phosphogypsum as secondary raw material in construction industry, the effects of fly ash on the diffusion, bonding, and microproperties of chloride penetration in concrete were studied. Increasing amounts of sustainable concretes are being used as society becomes more aware of the environment. Finally, the circular economy as an economic model of production and consumption that involves reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling materials after their service life are presented in this book.