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Description:
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A number of recently constructed bridge approach slabs using an articulation at mid span and the wide flange terminal anchorage system have experienced settlement at their expansion joints . This problem is more commonly referred to as the bump at the end of the bridge . This study investigated reasons for the bumps and recommended ways to improve the current situation . To find out possible causes of the bridge approach slab problem , literature review , questionnaire survey , and a visual inspection for 18 Houston sites were conducted . Based on the results , two bridge sites in Houston , Texas , were selected for detailed investigation . An extensive series of laboratory and field tests were performed at each site . The main causes of bump at two study sites were compression of embankment soil and natural soil , and poor compaction of embankment soil . The finite -element computer program ABAQUS was used to evaluate behavior of the current approach slab design and of a possibly more effective design . The results show that the transition zone is about 12 m with 80 percent of the maximum settlement |