Using full-depth precast concrete panels to replace a bridge deck is an innovative approach. The major advantages of the precast concrete system are speed of construction, durability of the bridge deck, and full composite action between the bridge deck and the precast, prestressed concrete girders. Composite action can be achieved between the precast concrete panels and the precast concrete girders by using threaded steel bolts as shear connectors. Achieving efficiency in the placement of steel bolts in shear pockets, either spaced 2 ft (610 mm) on center or as required by the design, is of particular interest in this type of connection. Thirteen push-out specimens with shear pockets in the slabs were cast and tested under static loading to determine the ultimate strength and the mode of failure of the shear connection system. Parameters considered in this study were length of the steel bolts and number and configuration of steel bolts in the shear pocket. Experimental test results indicate that threaded steel bolts are capable of allowing the precast concrete panels and precast concrete girders to achieve full composite action. It was also deter mined that the application of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials load and resistance factor design guidelines to deter mine the horizontal shear strength of the proposed type of shear connection conservatively estimates the design strength.
