Bridges & Tunnels

Inspection and testing of bridges and tunnels is imperative when identifying causes of deterioration and specifying correct methods of repair. Failure to identify deterioration to bridges may lead to catastrophic failures in the future. Bridge inspections are often mandated by law with the objective of identifying issues with the structures at the earliest stage before they develop into bigger problems.

Many highway and pedestrian bridges suffer from deterioration of the concrete surfaces as a result of corrosion of the embedded steel reinforcement. This is often initiated by a high chloride ion content in the concrete predominantly from the use of de-icing salts (sodium chloride). If the structure is repaired using conventional methods without identifying the presence of chloride, corrosion of the adjacent steel reinforcement and failure of the adjacent concrete surfaces will occur as a result of the effect called incipient anode reaction. In order to avoid this occurring, a corrosion control method must be employed.

Not only is the condition of the bridge of upmost importance when ensuring its durability, the load bearing capacity of the bridge may be of concern. With traffic flow and vehicle loading increasing over the years, there is a growing need to asses the load bearing capacity of bridges, tunnels and culverts. The Concrete Consultancy 2000 Ltd offer a full package from the inspection and testing of bridges and culverts to their repair and strengthening as required.

Inspection of the steel elements of bridges may also need to be considered in conjunction with testing of the concrete surfaces. Adhesion of coatings, paint analysis, loss of section and steel thickness measurements are key pieces of information when considering a suitable repair specification.