ABSTRACT
In this study, the authors run fatigue test by using the wheel load machine and detailed the fatigue resistance of a precast road bridge deck with the newly developed joint and that of another one with the conventional loop joint, respectively. The water is ponded on the surface of the experimental subjects during the test. Consequently, the number of equivalent running for the newly developed joint specimen to reach the fatigue limit is more than 10 times of that required by the loop joint specimen, and therefore it is concluded that the fatigue resistance of the newly developed joint specimen is significantly improved. Moreover, for the loop joint specimen, the partial fatigue damage occurred in the interface between the RC deck and the joint due to water infiltration into the inside of the specimen from the boundary of RC deck and the joint part, and the subsequent apparent reduction of the fatigue resistance of the loop joint specimen.
