Research on the Influence of Load-Bearing Longitudinal Reinforcement on the Cracking Behavior of Inverted-T Bent Cap

Survey results from actual projects show cracks in the pier caps of the Super T girder bridge. This is a type of bridge commonly used in Vietnam today. The problem is that there needs to be solutions to limit these cracks. This article studies solutions to limit cracks by appropriately arranging reinforcement. The authors propose options for arranging load-bearing longitudinal reinforcement that is feasible in practice, technically and economically. Conducting structural analysis for these cases with different longitudinal reinforcement arrangements using the finite element method. The computational model is a 3D model that is close to reality for reliable results. Linear and nonlinear analysis are used simultaneously in the study to clarify the influence of reinforcement arrangement on the behavior of pier cap beam structures such as concrete stress, reinforcement stress, crack width, and crack patterns. From there, there are recommendations on how to arrange load-bearing reinforcement in cap beams.