Field Destructive Testing of a Reinforced Concrete Bridge Deck Slab

Many bridge deck slabs in Europe are rated insufficient load-carrying capacity in shear and punching according to the Eurocodes. In the past, assessment models have mainly been developed from laboratory studies that simplified real-world conditions. Large-scale or full-scale field experiments are needed to validate more recent improved models. The goal of this study is to calibrate improved models using data obtained from a full-scale bridge deck slab shear test; the objective is to exploit and share our findings and to make recommendations for the planning, design, and implementation of such a complex experiment. Full-scale destructive tests of a 55-year-old reinforced concrete bridge deck slab on prestressed concrete girders were conducted to calibrate a model used to assess existing bridges. Concrete properties were also tested to evaluate the condition of the bridge. Results show that both the load-carrying capacity of the bridge deck slab and the strength of the concrete were much greater than were assumed in design. Finite-element analysis of the parameters governing loading positions and prestress in the girders showed that arch action and boundary condition simplification had important effects on shear distribution.