Optimal Approach for Addressing Reinforcement Corrosion for Concrete Bridge Decks in Illinois

Project Details
STATE

IL

SOURCE

TRID

START DATE

08/16/21

END DATE

05/16/22

RESEARCHERS

Matthew J. Gombeda, Zoe N. Lallas, Estevan River Jr.

SPONSORS

Illinois DOT

KEYWORDS

Bridge decks, Corrosion, Life cycle analysis, Reinforced concrete bridges, Reinforcement (Engineering)

LINKS

Link

Product

Project description

This report presents the results of a comprehensive literature review focusing on corrosion performance of reinforced concrete bridge decks, with a particular emphasis on the relative performance of alternative corrosion-resistant reinforcement types. Examples of alternative corrosion-protection options examined herein include epoxy-coated, galvanized, stainless-steel, and A1035 bars, considering conventional black reinforcing bars as the standard. Based upon the results of the literature review, a framework for determining the optimal reinforcement option for a bridge deck is presented as a function of the properties of each reinforcement type and other factors, such as design service life, location of the bridge, estimated maintenance/repair cycles, and relative costs. Several examples are also provided to demonstrate the procedure for using the framework and its applicability for different bridge types with varying design considerations, such as a congested urban artery and a rural interstate. The literature review findings and the optimal approach framework were crafted for use by bridge design engineers as preliminary guidance when determining the type of reinforcement for a given bridge deck and its corresponding conditions. Furthermore, the approach can also be used by Illinois Department of Transportation officials when deciding whether to invest in higher performing corrosion-protection systems for a given application or for updating current bridge design policies to reflect the latest developments in alternative corrosion-resistant reinforcement options.
TOP