Block FEM for Time-Dependent Shear-Lag Behavior in Two I-Girder Composite Bridges

Abstract

This paper presents a time-dependent finite-element analysis of a two I-girder composite bridge with a concrete slab. The creep and shrinkage of the concrete slab are considered as sources of time-dependent behavior. This analysis, unlike others, includes the shear-lag effect of the concrete slab on the time-dependent behavior of two I-girder bridges. An example calculation is given for a two-span continuous composite bridge with a cracking region in the concrete deck near the interior support. It is shown that the shear-lag effect becomes significant at the edge of the cracking region and at the bridge ends.