26. PRESTRESSED CONCRETE

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is prestressing?

   Hint

   Think about how this helps deal with tension.

2. 2.

   Name the two methods of prestressing.

   Hint

   Remember, one occurs before curing, and one after.

3. 3.

   What is the primary benefit of prestressing concrete?

   • Reduced weight
   • Improved tensile strength
   • Reduced cracking

   Hint

   Think about how stresses are countered.

4. 4.

   True or False: In pretensioning, tendons are tensioned after the concrete has set.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember when each action takes place.

5. 5.

   Design a prestressed concrete beam for a given span, specifying materials and methods.

   Hint

   Use principles from structural analysis to ensure sufficient capacity.

6. 6.

   Analyze a bridge that experienced excessive creep. What design improvements would you recommend?

   Hint

   Think about material properties and structural integrity.