Load Carrying Capacity of Existing Bridge Deck Slabs

Research Project, 2012 – 2017

Existing infrastructure represents a substantial part of the societal assets and existing bridges represents a huge capital that need to be well administrated. Bridge deck slabs are one of the most exposed bridge parts and are often critical for the load carrying capacity. Consequently, it is important to examine if the current analysis and design methods are appropriate.

The overall aim of the project is to develop improved methods for assessment of the load carrying capacity and response of bridge deck slabs. The project comprises a literature study with an investigation of previous laboratory tests. Evaluation and analysis is made with expert support and through analytical as well as linear and non-linear finite element analysis. This is expected to lead to improved methods for design and assessment of bridge deck slabs. The project is expected to lead to higher detectable load carrying capacity in assessment of existing bridge deck slabs. This will in turn lead to lower life cycle costs and reduced environmental impact from the bridge deck slabs.