Bridge deck cracking: A field study on concrete placement, curing, and performance

The concrete properties, curing regimens, and crack density of the five bridge decks were measured. Concrete was sampled from two or three locations in the bridge decks, and the fresh and hardened concrete properties were measured. Curing regimens for the bridge decks were also documented. After construction, the research team returned to each bridge to investigate and measure the amount of cracking. Factors that led to cracking included low 1 day compressive strengths, delayed curing, and improper curing compound dosages. The research team also determined that the concrete properties, both fresh and hardened, varied significantly within some bridge decks.

► The casting, curing, and cracking of five bridge decks were measured.
► Variations in early age compressive strength were observed in the concrete.
► Bridge deck with the highest compressive strength experienced the most cracking.
► Differences between 1 and 7 day compressive strength appeared to affect cracking.
► Variances in curing compound application rates were observed.