Solutions to Concrete Bridge Deck Cracking

Abstract

Increased cracking in newly constructed concrete highway bridge decks has been reported in recent years. This is a concern since cracks can cause bar corrosion and concrete deterioration, resulting in decreased service life. Accordingly, prevention or mitigation of cracking in concrete bridge decks is of prime importance. Concrete cracking in bridge decks is caused by various factors involving different stages of design and construction. This article summarizes existing knowledge and provides practical design and construction methods to minimize cracking. The types of cracks discussed are: plastic shrinkage, subsidence, thermal shrinkage, drying shrinkage, and flexure.