ABSTRACT
This paper presents the validation of finite element models for nonlinear analysis of prestressed concrete (PC) bridge deck beams subjected to experimental full-scale load tests within the BRIDGE|50 research project (https://www.bridge50.org). Structural modeling is developed with different levels of complexity using PC beam finite elements accounting for the material nonlinearities associated with the constitutive laws of the materials, i.e. concrete, reinforcing steel, and prestressing steel, and bi-dimensional finite elements for plane stress analysis formulated in accordance with the Modified Compression Field Theory. The results of nonlinear finite element analyses are compared with the experimental outcomes to validate the numerical models, collect information about the structural behavior of the tested deck beams, and support in this way a proper planning of the future full-scale load tests of the BRIDGE|50 research project.
