Date of Award

Spring 2007

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Civil Engineering

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Erin Bell

Abstract

As technology for finite element software improves, the ability to create accurate models of existing systems becomes feasible. Structural modeling is used to predict response to various loading conditions, and if used with structural parameter estimation, could be a successful tool for structural health monitoring.

In June 2006, laboratory testing was completed at the University of New Hampshire on two sets of pre-cast, post-tensioned concrete deck slabs. This work was sponsored by the New Hampshire Department of Transportation for future use in rapid bridge construction. Models of these slabs were created using the finite element software package GTSTRUDLRTM.

This research included the development of in instrumentation plan, creation of the finite element model, and the analysis and comparison of results. The intent was to create a model that accurately predicts the behavior of the slabs under given loading and support conditions.

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