Warning! LRFD May Be Hazardous To Your Bridges' Health

摘要

Historic AASHTO deflection limitations and mid-span transverse bracing requirements have been abandoned in the new LRFD Specifications. In fact, a careful reading of the new deflection provisions and clarifying commentary reveals that these Specifications actually appear to encourage construction of more flexible bridge superstructures. This paper explains why implementation of AASHTO's LRFD Specifications for deflections and transverse braces will produce some uncomfortable bridges and bridges more vulnerable to construction and service-related contingencies. In addition, such implementation also has the long-term potential for producing bridges that will experience accelerated disintegration of their reinforced concrete deck slabs.