Numerical simulation of long-term creep tests on prestressed beams

The deformations of concrete elements can increase significantly over time as a result of creep and shrinkage. Different material models, which have been calibrated on large datasets, are available in literature in order to predict this time-dependent behaviour. A cross-sectional calculation tool which employs the age-adjusted effective modulus has been developed to verify the accuracy of six models with respect to creep data available for 24 prestressed beams. These prestressed beams with a span of 8 m were loaded up until 4.5 years in a four point bending configuration. This paper reports on the comparison between the measured and calculated compression strains and deflections. It was observed that the mid-span deflection of the prestressed beams at the end of loading is best prescribed by the model B3 and the Gardner Lockmann 2000 model.