Crack Surveys of Low-Cracking High-Performance Concrete Bridge Decks in Kansas 2009-2010

Abstract

The specifications for the construction of Low-Cracking High-Performance Concrete (LC-HPC) bridge decks are summarized and the survey procedure used for analysis of cracking performance of bridge decks is described. Thirteen LC-HPC decks and thirteen control decks were evaluated using the survey procedure. Crack densities were calculated and crack locations marked. LC-HPC bridge decks have significantly lower crack densities than do the control bridge decks. The majority of cracks develop in the transverse direction, directly above and parallel to the reinforcing steel. Longitudinal cracks often propagate from the abutments. The results suggest that crack densities will increase on the upper portions of superelevated decks due to increased settlement cracking caused by the use of high slump concrete and less than optimum curing when water is not directly supplied to the superelevated side of the deck. Overfinishing of concrete by means of a double-drum roller screed may increase cracking by increasing the amount of cement paste at the deck surface.