Since its introduction in the United States in 1949, precast, prestressed concrete has rapidly become the preferred composite material for bridge design and construction, as well as many other transportation related projects. Today, it remains the solution of choice for transportation agencies and their designers across the country. This growth is due to the commitment of precast producers to develop, improve, and implement advanced materials, products, and technology all aimed at enhancing the performance of bridges and transportation structures.
Precast, prestressed concrete systems are used to quickly construct high quality, durable, short- to long-span bridges. Precast components are used in the construction of both the superstructure and substructure of bridges. More details and resources on precast concrete bridge construction are available in Bridge Design.
Precast, prestressed concrete pavement systems are gaining in popularity due to their inherent speed, ease of use, and quality. Precast pavements are being used in repair and new construction applications. More details and resources on precast concrete pavement systems are available in Precast Concrete Pavements. Visit the Prestressed/Precast Concrete Pavement Repository (sponsored by PCI and FHWA)
Precast concrete is commonly used for noise barriers, or sound walls, on freeways, and other sound reducing applications.
Precast concrete is often used in airport construction including, air control towers, tarmacs, runways, rail systems, parking structures, terminals, etc. More details and resources on precast concrete building systems are available in Building Engineering Resources.
Precast concrete is used in several types of marine structures from docks and piers, to channel wall construction and break walls.
Precast concrete is often used on rail systems such as railroad ties, bridges, tunnels, elevated tracks, monorails, etc.