COMPRESSIVE MEMBRANE ACTION IN HIGH STRENGTH CONCRETE BRIDGE DECK SLABS

摘要

In recent years corrosion of reinforcement in concrete bridges throughout the UK has been the cause of major expenditure in repair and maintenance. However, in addition to the strength provided by the reinforcement, bridge deck slabs have an inherent strength due to the in-plane arching forces set up as a result of restraint provided by the slab boundary conditions. This is known as Compressive Membrane Action (CMA). Detailing to reduce the risk of corrosion is simpler if the percentage of reinforcement is reduced. The use of fibres within the concrete may reduce thermal and shrinkage cracking to further enhance the long term durability. This research extends the existing knowledge of CMA in slabs for concrete strengths up to 100N/mm~2. It is aimed at utilising CMA theory to promote more economical and durable bridge deck construction.