Objective condition states for concrete bridge deck assessment

Inspection of bridge decks generally relies on visual inspection and use of basic non-destructive testing techniques. Assessment typically involves comparison of observed condition with pre-defined condition states. Current condition states require little quantitative data and must apply across many different material types and bridge elements. Use of these types of subjective techniques may lead to uncertain assessment of structure condition. This is particularly true when comparing different structures or structures assessed by different personnel. One improvement that may be considered to reduce the uncertainty or subjectivity of the current process is the introduction of quantitative measures within the condition states. The study presented herein discusses condition states developed for assessment of concrete cast-in-place bridge decks. The proposed condition states include basic quantitative information and address specific forms of deterioration consistently identified during inspection.