Phase I Minimization Of Cracking In New Concrete Bridge Decks

Download or read book Phase I: Minimization of Cracking in New Concrete Bridge Decks written by Nicole Duffala and published by . This book was released on 2016 with total page 85 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Cracking of newly constructed high-performance concrete (HPC) bridges is a problem recognized nationwide and the Nevada Department of Transportation has been plagued with this distress in their HPC concrete bridge decks. This research effort is a strategic attempt to reduce or eliminate random cracking that is caused by restrained shrinkage in new concrete bridge decks constructed in Nevada. The overall objective will be achieved through a three phase research program of which the results of Phase I are being reported in this document. Phase I research findings provide a synthesis of state, regional, and national practices and knowledge on factors contributing to HPC bridge deck cracking. With respect to materials and mixture proportioning, the overwhelming conclusion is that the shrinkage of the concrete mixture, especially at early-ages, must be reduced and the concrete’s resistance to cracking must be Improved. A rigorous, Phase II laboratory experiment was designed and is presented herein. This Phase II laboratory experiment focuses on local materials and will assess the properties of concrete mixtures that are related to early-age drying shrinkage restraint cracking. Ultimately, these research findings could be used to revise standard specifications and special provisions for Nevada DOT bridge decks and eventually reduce the overall incidence of restraint cracking due to concrete drying shrinkage.