Three dimensional finite element analysis of prestressed concrete slabs considering friction

摘要

Prestressed concrete (PC) is one of the most widely used con-struction material, which can resist tension and compression efficiently. In this, external prestressing force is applied onthe concrete to reduce or eliminate the tensile stresses andthereby control or eliminate cracking. In this way a prestres-sed concrete section is considerably stiffer than reinforcedconcrete section. In curved tendons, upward force is imposedon the concrete which may reduce or eliminate the downwarddeflection as well. Because of above reasons, a prestressedconcrete structure has become extremely useful in the con-struction in liquid retaining structures and nuclear contain-ment structures where absolutely no leakage is acceptable.This technique is of great use in railway sleepers, large spanbridges and long span roofs. Prestressed concrete slab over-comes many of the disadvantages of reinforced concrete slab.Deflection, which is almost always the governing factor, isbetter controlled in post-tension slabs. Therefore, a safe andmore slender slab can be obtained.