Supplementary Cementitious Materials to Enhance Bridge Deck Durability

摘要

Bridge deck durability is an issue of great interest and concern to state highwayagencies. The use of supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash, silica fume, slag, and natural pozzolans has been shown to enhance durability. Since some of these materials are cheaper than Portland cement, there is an economic advantage to wider use. However, clear and conclusive guidelines are lacking as to the optimum use of these materials and the curing practices required to achieve the desired performance and durability. Concrete with silica fume, in particular, has been shown to be more sensitive to curing practices than more conventional mixtures. There is a need for guidelines to help transportation agency personnel specify the materials, proportions, and procedures that will ensure long-term durability of concrete bridge decks. Transferring the latest materials technology to transportation professionals in Alabama will substantially enhance the management and safety of transportation systems both during construction and in service.