The Effectiveness of a Retrofit Method for Cantilever Slabs Using Reinforced Concrete Beams

Abstract

A new retrofit method was developed, geared mainly for cantilever rigid-frame viaducts, which involves the installation of RC beams in each of the viaduct's columns to improve cantilever performance against strong wind loads, generated by noise prevention barriers which are higher than before. This paper describes the experiments and FEM analyses conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of this method. Firstly, confirmation was obtained that this method can be used on cantilever viaducts to increase resistance. Secondly verifications were made to ensure that that this method allows cantilevers to support barriers of about 5 m. Finally, a method was proposed which can be used to calculated the allowable bending strength using this method.