Design and construction of post-tensioned concrete box-girder viaducts for high-speed rail

This paper explains the design criteria used for nine box-girder continuous high-speed rail viaducts constructed in Spain. It describes the longitudinal layout and an innovative construction process using movable scaffolding. A comparison between different post-tensioning and reinforcing steel ratios is provided. Recommendations for fatigue design and concrete stress criteria in the serviceability limit state are given. In addition, the paper provides the quantities of concrete, post-tensioning and reinforcing steel used in the construction of the viaducts.