Synthesis and Verification of Link Slab Practices for Jointless Bridge Decks in Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC)

Bridge deck expansion joints are among the most maintenance-intensive components of highway bridges, often leading to premature deterioration, increased repair costs, and reduced service life. Link slabs provide an effective alternative by enabling jointless deck configurations, improving durability, and reducing long-term maintenance demands. Despite their proven benefits, inconsistencies in design methodologies particularly regarding the need for deck debonding and the use of advanced materials such as Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) have limited their broader adoption in Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) applications. Early studies recommended partial debonding near girder ends, while more recent large-scale investigations, such as SHRP2 R19A, concluded that debonding may not be required. At the same time, UHPC-based link slabs have demonstrated excellent crack control and durability, yet remain without standardized design guidance. This project aims to synthesize existing research, field applications, state DOT practices, and emerging material innovations to establish practical best practices for link slab design. To this end, the current study will (1) compile and evaluate past research and implementations, (2) compare conventional and UHPC-based link slab approaches, (3) conduct analytical and limited experimental verification to resolve conflicting recommendations, and (4) develop design provisions and example details suitable for ABC applications. The proposed work will produce a comprehensive synthesis report, validated guidance, and actionable recommendations for DOTs and practitioners. By clarifying design assumptions, addressing uncertainties in debonding requirements, and evaluating the role of UHPC, this study will promote the consistent and reliable use of link slabs in jointless bridge decks.

• Record URL:
  • https://abc-utc.fiu.edu/synthesis-and-verification-of-link-slab-practices-for-jointless-bridge-decks-in-accelerated-bridge-construction-abc/

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $105,000.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3552348322

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Innovative Bridge Technologies/Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (IBT/ABC-UTC)

  Florida International University
  Miami, FL  United States 

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  Innovative Bridge Technologies/Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (IBT/ABC-UTC)

  Florida International University
  Miami, FL  United States 
• Performing Organizations:

  Florida International University

  10555 West Flagler Street
  Miami, FL  United States  33174
• Principal Investigators:

  Azizinamini, Atorod

• Start Date: 20260101
• Expected Completion Date: 20270630
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Accelerated bridge construction; Bridge decks; Bridge design; Debonding; Jointless bridges; State of the practice; Ultra high performance concrete
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Design; Highways; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01998450
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Innovative Bridge Technologies/Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (IBT/ABC-UTC)
• Contract Numbers: 69A3552348322
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Aug 7 2026 8:21AM