Crack Surveys of Low-Cracking High-Performance Concrete Bridge Decks in Kansas 2011-2013

Abstract

Crack densities of Low-Cracking High-Performance Concrete (LC-HPC) bridge decks are compared to crack densities of control decks to investigate the benefits of the LC-HPC specifications developed at the University of Kansas. Specifications for construction of LC-HPC bridge decks are addressed. Bridge deck crack survey procedures are also summarized. Thirteen LC-HPC decks and thirteen control decks are compared by calculating crack densities and noting trends in cracking patterns over time. The results for eight additional decks are also presented. These include three LC-HPC decks, one control deck, and three decks which are considered neither LC-HPC nor control decks. The LC-HPC bridge decks have, with very few exceptions, lower crack densities than the control decks. Cracks are typically transverse above and parallel to the bars in the top layer of reinforcing steel, except at abutments, where cracks propagate longitudinally or perpendicular to the abutment.