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A Self-Learning Manual - Institution of Engineers Mauritius

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A <strong>Self</strong>-<strong>Learning</strong> <strong>Manual</strong><br />

Mastering Different Fields <strong>of</strong> Civil Engineering Works (VC-Q&A Method) Vincent T. H. CHU<br />

5. What are the problems <strong>of</strong> using transition slabs in bridges? (BS2)<br />

In some designs, transition slabs are provided on the approach to bridges.<br />

For instance, soils in embankment supporting the roads may settle due to<br />

insufficient compaction and sharp depressions would be developed at the<br />

junction with the relatively rigid end <strong>of</strong> bridge decks [53]. This creates the<br />

problem <strong>of</strong> poor riding surfaces <strong>of</strong> carriageway and proper maintenance<br />

has to be carried out to rectify the situation. As a result, transition slabs are<br />

sometimes designed at these junctions to distribute the relative settlements<br />

between the approaching embankments and end <strong>of</strong> bridge decks so that<br />

the quality <strong>of</strong> riding surface between these junctions could be significantly<br />

improved and substantial savings could be obtained by requiring less<br />

maintenance.<br />

6. What is the purpose <strong>of</strong> overlays on concrete bridge deck?<br />

After years <strong>of</strong> servicing, some overlays may be applied on the top surface<br />

<strong>of</strong> bridges. Overlays on concrete bridge decks achieve the following<br />

purposes [8]:<br />

(i) It aims to provide a smooth riding surface. Hence, it may be applied<br />

during the maintenance operation to hide the uneven and spalling deck<br />

surface and <strong>of</strong>fers a smoother surface for road users.<br />

(ii) The use <strong>of</strong> overlays can extend the life <strong>of</strong> the bridge deck.<br />

7. What are the purposes <strong>of</strong> waterpro<strong>of</strong>ing in bridge decks?<br />

Waterpro<strong>of</strong>ing materials like membranes are applied on top <strong>of</strong> bridge deck<br />

surface because:<br />

(i) Vehicular traffic (e.g. tanker) may carry dangerous chemicals and the<br />

leakage <strong>of</strong> such chemicals in the absence <strong>of</strong> waterpro<strong>of</strong>ing materials<br />

may endanger the life <strong>of</strong> bridges. The chemicals easily penetrate and<br />

cause the deterioration <strong>of</strong> concrete bridge decks.<br />

(ii) In some countries where very cold weather is frequently encountered,<br />

salt may be applied for defrosting purpose. In case waterpro<strong>of</strong>ing is not<br />

provided, the salt solution penetrates through the concrete cracks <strong>of</strong> the<br />

bridge and causes the corrosion <strong>of</strong> reinforcement.<br />

(iii) In the event <strong>of</strong> cracks appearing on concrete deck, water penetrates<br />

the bridge deck and brings about steel corrosion.<br />

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