Modified Geometry of Transition Slabs for Integral Bridges

Over the past decades, an increasing number of integral bridges have been built. This type of bridge offers various advantages in comparison with standard bridges equipped with expansion joints and bearings. In particular, integral bridges require less maintenance since they require less mechanical elements. Transition slabs, which are used in integral bridges, are directly connected to the bridge deck and therefore they are subjected to large displacements caused by creep, shrinkage and temperature effects. Consequently, detailing of transition slabs needs to be examined. This paper investigates new design approaches for transition slabs focusing on the road pavement settlement at the end of the transition slab. On that basis, a modified geometry of the transition slabs is proposed for integral bridges.