In order to obtain a better understanding of partially prestressed concrete slabs with unbonded tendons, a test program was carried out at The University of Texas at Austin during which the strength and behavior of two half-scale models of prototype structures were experimentally evaluated 4 '5 Of major concern was the comparison of observed behavior with that predicted following the provisions of ACI 318-77. The specific objectives of the test program were to:
1. Examine the load-deflection response of the slabs before and after initial cracking with particular attention to the effects of cracking on the observed stiffness of the two slabs.
2. Observe the control and distribution of cracking provided by different amounts of bonded non-prestressed reinforcement.
3. Determine experimentally the ultimate strength of the specimens as well as measure the increase in tendon stresses as failure loads were approached.
4. Compare the test results with the provisions contained in ACI 318-77.
