Innovative solutions in bridge construction with composite dowel strips

Composite constructions are established in bridge engineering in Germany and Poland. This success is based on the high grade of prefabrication and the large spans which can be realized by modular systems and the straightforward design of integral structures. The result is a high-quality structure, short construction times, low construction costs. Since 2013 the composite dowel strip is regulated in Germany. It was applied in several bridge projects in diverse technical solutions. The widest application is in bridge girders in the function of shear connector between prefabricated concrete element and steel girder. The progress of the construction method becomes interesting with the view to wide range of use in filler beam decks in transversal direction of the bridge and in anchorage elements to introduce high concentrated loads into concrete elements.