Static Load Test Analysis of T-Beam Bridge Shear Strengthening by Prestressed Steel Wire Rope Embedded in Polyurethane Cement (PSWR-PUC)

Abstract

Many bridges suffer from aging and deterioration problems and need to be strengthened. PSWR-PUC is an emerging structural strengthening technology that enhances the load-bearing capacity of concrete bridges by embedding prestressed steel wire ropes into polyurethane cement. This paper focuses on investigating the shear reinforcement effectiveness of PSWR-PUC. Firstly, the composition of PSWR-PUC is introduced. Subsequently, two T-beam bridges in similar service condition are selected, and shear strengthening schemes involving PSWR-PUC and externally bonded steel plates are devised. Lastly, static loading tests are conducted, and the deflection and strain data of the two bridges before and after reinforcement intervention are analyzed. The results indicate that both strengthening methods improve the bridge load-carrying capacity. However, compared to the bridge strengthened with the externally bonded steel plate method, the deflections in the bridge strengthened with PSWR-PUC decreased by 36.8% and 42.1%, the strains decreased by 18% and 23%, and the shear stiffness was improved to a greater extent. These results verified that the PSWR-PUC strengthening method is effective for improving structural capacity and performance. This study will contribute to an in-depth understanding of the performance characteristics and application scope of PSWR-PUC shear strengthening technology, and it provides a scientific basis and guidance for practical engineering applications.