The use of prefabricated elements and systems in
bridge construction has gained interest among
transportation authorities. Through mass production
of the materials, repeated use of forms, and reduction of
on-site construction time and labor, significant economic
benefits can be achieved. Aging bridges may require repair,
rehabilitation, or replacement, which in most situations is
time consuming and costly. Work zone safety and traffic
disruptions are also major concerns. A full-lane closure is
costly on large, busy urban highways because of the disruption
to commercial and industrial activities. As a result,
precast concrete is a potential solution. Precast concrete
elements and systems can be quickly assembled, reduce
the effects on the environment in the vicinity of the site,
and minimize delays and inconvenience to the traveling
public, saving time and taxpayers’ money. Even at a higher
initial cost, the use of prefabricated systems on bridges
subjected to high volumes of traffic may be justified because
excessive lane closure times can be avoided and the
marginal cost of fixed-shape formwork diminishes over the
long term.
Shah et al.1,2 proposed the use of a prefabricated bridge