Durability Assessment of Bridges with Full-Span Prestressed Concrete Form Panels

Abstract

This paper summarizes the results from a research project that evaluated the durability of short-span bridges constructed with full-span prestressed concrete form panels in northern climates where deicing salt usage is extensive. A full-scale bridge specimen was constructed and subjected to 48 weeks of durability exposure cycling to determine the potential for delamination and assess the resistance to chloride-induced reinforcement corrosion. The exposure cycling greatly accelerated the penetration of chlorides, producing concentrations in the deck that exceeded those from bridges that had been in service for nearly 40 years. The results from this study showed that long-term composite behavior can be achieved in these structures by applying a raked finish to the top surface of the prestressed panels. Corrosion measurements revealed the need to modify the positive moment connections at interior piers to provide a more durable structure.