Debonded Strands in Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders Status: CompleteReport Date: 07/29/2019 Summary: Debonding and draping the steel strands in prestressed concrete beams are two methods of reducing beam end stresses while still getting the benefit of prestressing. Local beam manufacturers consider draping a technical and safety challenge that increases concrete cost and fabrication time. MnDOT, on the other hand, has not deployed debonding because of concerns that water and salt will enter the beam ends along the debonded strands and cause corrosion. Research on the state of the practice found that many transportation agencies facing climates similar to Minnesota's use debonding successfully with little impact from corrosion. The study recommends MnDOT begin the practice starting with a limit where up to 40 percent of the strands may be debonded. Final Deliverables: Report #2019-30 Technical Summary Related Materials: Using Debonded Strands to Reduce End Stress in Bridge Beams - (Blog Post) Related Research: Release Methodology of Prestressed Strands. Bridge Deck Performance Anchorage of Epoxy-Coated Rebar Using Chemical Adhesives
