Written by adminJanuary 11, 2019 In a bridge structure, abutment refers to the substructure unit which supports the end of the structure (bridge span) and retains the approach fill (see Ontario Structure Inspection Manual). Abutments are commonly made of mass concrete, reinforced concrete, or wood. Usually, abutments consist of a number of components: +
Written by adminSeptember 4, 2018 The collapse of Ponte Morandi in Genoa, Italy (read more) and Florida International University pedestrian bridge (read more) have raised concerns about the safety and reliability of existing and new bridge structures. common Defects in bridge structures can affect the overall safety of the bridge structures. Different deterioration mechanisms
Written by adminFebruary 7, 2017 Taking core samples from concrete structures is required for comprehensive assessment of durability and structural performance of the structure. The compression test on core samples is known as the most reliable method for assessing the compressive strength and a means of quality control. The procedure for taking
Written by adminJanuary 20, 2017 The use of electrical resistivity method for quality control and evaluation of concrete durability is becoming very popular among scholars and engineers. The measurement of electrical resistivity of concrete provides useful information about the microstructure of concrete material. The test procedure has since been standardized by AASHTO TP 95. This
Written by adminMay 31, 2017 Cracking is a common observation in concrete structures. Cracks can be a result of plastic shrinkage, or constructional movements. Moreover, cracks can happen as a result of overloading concrete elements, or creep. Chemical reactions such as alkali-aggregate reactions and corrosion can induce cracking. Material and Structural engineers
Written by adminJanuary 17, 2019 Concrete Imaging and Scanning are used to assess the location and extent of sub-surface defects. Different non-destructive test methods have been developed and used over the past few decades. The following article briefly describes some of these methods, and their application in the structure inspection and structural
Written by adminNovember 7, 2017 Non-destrcutive Testing- NDT Methods for Evaluation of Parking Garages can help improve the quality of routine inspection and maintenance. Parking garages require routine inspection and maintenance to ensure they remain safe and operational. Weather it is a public parking in extremely busy downtown areas, or a private
Written by adminJune 28, 2017 Appropriate operation and maintenance of concrete dam structures are essential to ensure the safety of the structure, and reducing risk. Concrete surfaces should be examined in a regular basis to identify spalling and deterioration due to weathering, or extreme stresses, or other physical, or chemical damage mechanism. Nondestructive Evaluation
Written by adminAugust 4, 2017 This article describes certain construction practices that can result in integrity problems in concrete piles and drilled shafts. Defects can occur at any point during the construction of bored concrete pile. Most common types of pile integrity issues are presence of voids; inconsistency in concrete mix, concrete;
Written by adminJuly 27, 2017 Exposed Concrete Decks suffer from various deterioration mechanisms; i.e. freezing and thawing, corrosion. The most significant consequence is the delamination of concrete, which could eventually trigger other damage mechanism, such as corrosion. The maintenance of deck slabs is quite challenging mainly because it normally involves large areas;
