Diagnostic of degraded reinforced concrete bridges explaining the environmental condition effect and reinforcement method

Abstract

Purpose This research aims to study the materials that compose older reinforced concrete bridges which are damaged and degrading to explain the mechanisms and origins of various disorders. Therefore, this work will contribute to providing answers on the capacity of nondestructive evaluation method during the diagnosis. In addition to the characterization of affected structures, it will aim to provide effective solutions for different serious pathologies. Design/methodology/approach In this context, two bridges located on NH16 and NH21, respectively, were studied in Annaba city (north-east Algeria), specifically in El-Hadjar municipality located in the central industrial zone of Pont-Bouchet. This study makes it possible to make conclusions from the in-depth diagnosis based on disorders exposition causes and mechanical characteristics evolution by non-destructive testing (NDT) tools. Furthermore, solutions are proposed, including conservation maintenance of these degraded structures. Findings All degradations can be the result of several factors: either human (poor design) or chemical (surface water, wastewater and groundwater quality (acidic or basic)). In addition to other natural causes (geological formations, flood phenomena or climate), NDT tools play a major role in the evaluating mechanical performance of degraded structures (resistance and hardness). Research limitations/implications The NDT techniques can be transmitted to civil engineering experts because their training is limited regarding mechanical and structural construction. Practical implications NDT tools are the most suitable for in-situ assessing, and the concrete constructions health state, so far from financial problems. Social implications Degraded bridge diagnosis by NDT testing is necessary for a thorough safety evaluation (mechanical performance, strength and deformability), to protect human lives and design durability. Originality/value This is an original paper which contains new information at different scales and from special fields, based on an evaluation using NDT tools on real degraded structures. It can be used to improve the knowledge of materials employed in a bridge without performing expensive direct tests or the need for destroying it.