Bridges all play an important role in our lives. A failed bridge can be catastrophic, so continuous monitoring and maintenance of these large concrete structures is required.

Concrete bridge repair

First, the structure needs to be evaluated to identify problem areas and potential weak points in the concrete. Several different evaluation tools are used to assist this process, such as ultrasonic testing, visual inspection, and petrography.

Based on the information collected throughout the process, a rehabilitation plan will be developed.

Most bridge repair plans require some level of concrete repair.

This may include repairing and strengthening existing concrete, or breaking, forming and pouring new patches. Usually, concrete work is required on the bridge deck, but other areas of the structure may also require work.

In some cases, epoxy can also be used to inject cracks to help reuse existing concrete. This uses a special epoxy resin to inject cracks and restore structural strength, while sealing and preventing further water from entering and continuing to damage the structure.

Depending on the bridge, further reinforcement may be required. This can be done with carbon fiber or steel reinforcement. This material can be bonded to some concrete structures from the outside to provide further strength and reinforcement to existing concrete.

After the repair is complete, the concrete should be sealed to continue to protect it. This is also a good time to install anodes to continue to protect the newly repaired bridge.