1996. Materials and systems for external prestressing. (PDF)

External prestressing has been used since the beginning of the development of prestressed concrete, and more recently as a method for strengthening non-prestressed concrete structures. During the last decade, especially in France, external prestressing has gained increasing acceptance as a post-tensioning method enabling inspection and, if necessary, replacement of tendons without demolition of parts of the structure. A series of more than 50 bridges has been built in France since 1982, and this type of bridge construction is also growing in other countries.

Although the development of materials and systems for external prestressing is becoming widely accepted, it is appropriate to provide a current state-of-the-art report.

Many thanks go to the Working Group on External Prestressing (part of FIP Commission 2), under the chairmanship of Dr U. Morf, who have undertaken this special work to provide users of this post-tensioning method with a review of its current status.

H. R. Müller
Chairman
Commission 2 – Prestressing Materials and Systems