This paper presents a new technique for creating continuity in prestressed concrete members. The essence of the system is the creation of continuity at interior supports by coupling top end strand extensions. This coupling is followed by introducing compression into cast-in-place joints and tension in the coupled strands. This system has all the benefits of a continuously post-tensioned system without actually implementing the full post-tensioning operation. Members made continuous with this system are expected to exhibit enhanced seismic resistance, superior structural integrity and substantially lower deflection levels than other continuous and non-continuous prestressed concrete members in current use.
