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On September 6, 2025, the Sixth Tongji Forum on the Development and Innovation of Bridge Engineering Technology and the First Forum on the Development and Innovation of Prestressed Technology were successfully held in the Yifu Building Auditorium of Tongji University, with a simultaneous online meeting.
Prestress Technology has added Prof. Luc Taerwe from Ghent University, Belgium as Co-Editor-in-ChiefOn November 13, 2024, it was decided at the meeting of the editors-in-chief of Prestress Technology that Prof. Luc Taerwe would be added as Co-Editor-in-Chief of the journal, injecting a new force into the international development of the journal. Previously, Prof. Luc Taerwe was a member of the Editorial Board of Prestress Technology.
Mr. Niels Peter Hoj, Chairman of the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering Technical Committee (IABSE TC), visited Tongji University on October 22, 2025, and engaged in a journal exchange.
Prestress Technology : An International Journal (PT) is an Open-Access, peer-reviewed journal that publishes articles which contribute new results in prestressing fields of the Civil Engineering,Nuclear Engineering, Energy Engineering. The journal is devoted to the publication of high quality papers on theoretical and practical aspects of Prestress technology. The goal of this journal is to bring together researchers and practitioners from academia and industry to focus on prestress technology advancements, and establishing new collaborations in these areas. Original research papers, state-of-the-art reviews are invited for publication in all fields of prestress technology.
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Seyedmilad Komarizadehasl, Zhouhui Shen, Ye Xia, Al-Amin, Jose Turmo
2025,3(03):1-19 ,DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.03.001
Abstract:Shear failure in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, characterized by their sudden and brittle nature, often results from inadequate shear reinforcement or degradation due to aging or increased loading demands. To enhance shear capacity, various retrofitting techniques have been developed, with external prestressing bars recognized as an effective solution. These bars apply an active clamping force to improve shear resistance and delay the formation and propagation of diagonal cracks. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of experimental investigations and numerical models, such as strut-and-tie and damage-plasticity approaches, to evaluate shear strengthening with external prestressing bars. In this review, early exploratory studies, the evolution of experimental programs, and the development of analytical and finite element models for predicting the behavior of strengthened beams are examined. Particular attention is given to validating numerical models against experimental data, focusing on load-sharing mechanisms, ductility, failure modes, and serviceability. Practical design implications are evaluated, research gaps are identified, and recommendations for future studies are proposed to advance the implementation of this technique. Findings from authoritative sources are integrated to provide a definitive reference for researchers and engineers seeking sustainable and efficient shear retrofit solutions.
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2025,3(03):20-34 ,DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.03.002
Abstract:This paper presents an experimental investigation into the shear capacity of prestressed concrete (PC) hollow core slabs with and without pre-existing oblique crack damage. A salvaged hollow core slab from Taihe Road Viaduct was selected for testing, with one end exhibiting in-service crack damage (T-A side) and the other end remaining intact (T-B side). Both ends were subjected to static loading to failure, and their shear performance was compared. The results indicate that the ultimate shear capacity of the damaged T-A side was approximately 16% lower than that of the undamaged T-B side. The damaged end also exhibited a lower cracking load, greater ultimate deflection, and greater torsional deformation. Both ends failed in a "bond-shear" mode, but the presence of pre-existing cracks on the T-A side exacerbated crack propagation and led to a wider main failure crack. The experimental results were used to evaluate the accuracy and applicability of several shear capacity calculation methods, including JTG 3362—2018, AASHTO LRFD Specifications 2020, ROSS, Naji, and Zhang's models, and the Response2000 program. The comparison reveals that Zhang's model and the ROSS model provided the most accurate predictions relative to the experimental values. The AASHTO LRFD method was found to be slightly unconservative for the damaged side while providing a conservative prediction for the undamaged side. This study highlights the detrimental effects of in-service cracks and reveals limitations in some conventional codes for assessing damaged members.
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Hong Gan, Qing Zhang, Xingze Li, Yaohui Xue, Wei Cui, Dinghao Yu
2025,3(03):35-48 ,DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.03.003
Abstract:To address two critical challenges in the numerical modeling of precast segmental structures—namely, post-tensioned prestress simulation and adhesive joint representation—this study proposes a refined finite element modeling approach. This method incorporates a nearest point matching algorithm during prestress application, resolving issues such as modeling complexity and low computational efficiency in traditional tendon–concrete node matching. For adhesive joint simulation, a cohesive contact element based on fracture mechanics is adopted, enabling the characterization of tensile-shear coupled failure under combined loading conditions. To validate the method, a precast segmental prestressed cap beam from a real-world project was analyzed under prestressing and service load scenarios. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach is efficient, rational, and practically applicable, providing reliable technical support for high-fidelity numerical simulations of prefabricated structures.
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2025,3(03):49-61 ,DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.03.004
Abstract:To evaluate the bonding behavior between ribbed steel bars and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), several pull-out samples were experimentally investigated and presented. The influences of bar diameter and embedment length on the bond failure mode, ultimate bond stress, stress?slip curve and bond stress distribution were investigated. Compared with that of ordinary reinforced concrete, the ultimate bond stress between steel bars and UHPC was increased by 74% under the same conditions. In addition, the bond-slip curve showed a relatively large slope before the ultimate bond stress was reached, and at the same time, the curve showed better ductility after the ultimate bond stress was exceeded. When the sample experiences steel bar yielding or pull-out failure, the bond stress distribution curve exhibits typical multipeak features. As the bar embedment length increased, the bond stress distribution became increasingly heterogeneous, and the increase in the peak number in the bond stress distribution curve reflected this trend. Under appropriate concrete cover thickness, the critical embedment length was between 4d and 6d.
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2025,3(03):62-72 ,DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.03.005
Abstract:This study investigates the construction quality and potential defects of grouted sleeve connections in a prefabricated bridge pier dismantled from a project in Shanghai using section-cutting inspection. Ten samples were examined with a focus on grout compactness, reinforcement anchorage length, and centering accuracy. The results show that the grout within the sleeves was highly compact, and all mechanical performance indices satisfied the relevant specifications and design requirements, indicating overall reliable construction quality. Minor deficiencies, including slightly insufficient anchorage length and deviations in reinforcement centering, were identified but are considered to have negligible effects on load-bearing and deformation capacities on the basis of existing research. The findings suggest that the current construction process generally meets quality requirements; however, improvements in grout mix proportion, construction procedures, and the addition of external threading on the sleeve surface are recommended to enhance bonding with surrounding concrete. This work provides experimental evidence from an actual engineering case to support the safety and durability assessment of grouted sleeve–connected piers and supplements nondestructive testing by revealing internal defects that are otherwise difficult to detect.
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2025,3(03):73-87 ,DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.03.006
Abstract:The Jiasong Highway Bridge over the Huangpu River is located in Songjiang District, Shanghai. It is planned as a secondary highway with six lanes in both directions and non-motorized lanes on both sides. The main bridge design adopts a (130 + 336 + 130)-m self-anchored suspension bridge. In this paper, the bridge construction plan is systematically analyzed and compared with alternative designs, considering aspects such as the overall scheme, main bridge design, and main bridge construction methods. These evaluations are based on construction conditions, such as hydrology, geology, navigation, and the environment. The aim of this study is to provide a reference for the design and construction of similar bridges in the future.
Volume 3,2025 Issue 03
>Reviews
>Scientific Research
>Design and Construction
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Available online:October 30, 2025 DOI: 10.59238/j.pt.2025.04.001
Abstract:With increasing societal awareness of environmental protection, the production process of traditional cement has become an area in urgent need of innovation because of its significant carbon emission contributions and generation of industrial solid waste. As a new type of low-carbon cementitious material, geopolymers not only consume less energy and produce fewer carbon emissions but also effectively allow for the reutilization of industrial solid waste, demonstrating its immense potential for further development. However, the inherent brittleness and poor crack resistance of geopolymers limit their structural applications. The crack resistance of concrete can be significantly improved by utilizing self-stressing structures to generate internal stress or by taking prestressed concrete with its unique manufacturing methods. Furthermore, incorporating admixtures to enhance the material''s inherent crack resistance presents another viable strategy. Owing to their excellent mechanical properties, carbon nanotube fibers offer new possibilities for addressing these limitations of geopolymers. In this review, the use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to enhance geopolymer performance is investigated. A comprehensive analysis of existing studies reveals that the incorporation of CNTs significantly improves the crack resistance and mitigates the brittleness of geopolymers. Optimal overall performance is frequently reported at CNT dosages between 0.12 wt.% and 0.14 wt.%. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for the practical engineering of CNT-reinforced geopolymers and contribute to the development of sustainable construction materials.
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Available online:November 12, 2025 DOI:
Abstract:Nanhai Avenue, located in Nanchong, Sichuan, is a major urban road built along mountains. The project involves the comprehensive treatment of a high and steep slope, which is characterized by elevated height, complex geological conditions, and a large volume of landslide mass. Moreover, the newly constructed bridge structure that is present adjacent to the slope poses strict requirements for slope deformation control. Based on the high-slope project on Nanhai Avenue in Nanchong, in this paper, a finite element model is constructed using Plaxis software to study support measures for high slopes. The results reveal that in slope protection, anti-slide piles play a crucial role in bearing the majority of the landslide force, and after prestress is applied, frame anchor cables can significantly share the landslide force, reducing the displacement and internal force of anti-slide pile shafts. Frame anchor cables transfer the landslide force to deep anchored soil layers, significantly reducing the deformation of soil behind piles, which plays a key role in controlling deformation of the bridge adjacent to the slope and ensuring the safety of the bridge structure. It is anticipated that the results of this study will provide reference data for similar projects in the future.
Special Issue
Virtual Special Issue
Executive Editor in chief: Fangyuan Li; Albert de la Fuente
