Recently, the seamless transformation demonstration project of Yangwuli Bridge on the Xincheng Link Road of Kangda Expressway, jointly carried out by Jiangxi Transportation Investment Group Kangda Expressway and the Jointless Bridge Research Team of Fuzhou University, has been successfully implemented. This marks a phased achievement in the first engineering application of deck link plates for jointless bridges in China's highway bridge systems.

Based on the existing bridge structure, the seamless transformation project of Yangwuli Bridge replaced the original expansion joints with FEBD (Folding Embedded Bridge Deck) seamless deck link plates, achieving a structural transition from "jointed" to "jointless" decking. This configuration integrates the mechanical characteristics of traditional expansion devices, deck link plates, and jointless bridge technology. Through the collaborative action of UHPC load-bearing components and polyurethane elastomers, the originally concentrated release of large displacements is transformed into multiple small deformations for energy dissipation. This effectively reduces vehicle impact effects, lowers the risk of structural defects, and significantly improves both driving comfort and structural durability of the bridge.

Compared with traditional expansion joints, the FEBD deck link plate offers notable advantages such as better integrity, higher durability, and lower maintenance requirements. It is particularly suitable for small- to medium-span bridges and the seamless transformation of existing bridges, holding significant engineering value and potential for widespread application in extending bridge service life and reducing lifecycle maintenance costs.

During the project implementation, relevant leaders from Kangda Expressway and Professor Huang Fuyun, head of the Jointless Bridge Research Team at Fuzhou University, visited the construction site for guidance. During the inspection, the leaders and experts gained a detailed understanding of the structural design, construction techniques, and phased outcomes of the deck link plates. They fully affirmed the project's status as the first engineering application of its kind in China and provided instructive suggestions on optimizing construction details, quality control, and subsequent monitoring plans.

The successful implementation of this project not only serves as an important demonstration of translating research into engineering practice but also provides new insights and an engineering model for seamless transformation technology in China's highway bridges. Subsequently, the project team will systematically evaluate the mechanical performance and service behavior of the FEBD deck link plates based on monitoring data from both the construction process and operational phases. This will provide a scientific basis for promoting the wider application of this technology.

（a）Reinforcement Detail of Continuous Slab at Abutment

（b）Saw-cut and remove the existing modular expansion joint

（c）Construction of Reinforcement Cage for New Deck Link Plate

（d）Concrete Placement of UHPC for New Deck Link Plate

（e）Application of polyurethane-modified asphalt overlay on the new deck link plate