Material Characterization of Field-Cast Connection Grouts

Prefabricated bridge element and system (PBES) construction concepts frequently rely on field-cast grouts to complete the connections between discrete precast concrete elements. A variety of grouts are available, each with unique performance attributes. The objective of this research is to evaluate the performance of a representative sample of grouts in terms of relevant material properties. This study both reports on the performance of eight specific grouts and provides general insight into the performance of five different types of grout. Although many of these grouts could be used in a post-tensioned connection system, the tests completed herein investigated the performance of the grouts in a non-post-tensioned condition.