Field Performance of Internally Cured Concrete Bridge Decks in New York State

Abstract

Synopsis: In an effort to improve the durability and the life cycle of infrastructure concrete, new advances have been made. These improvements have included the development of High Performance Concrete (HPC). HPC has utilized lower water cementitious ratios and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) in an effort to improve the durability of these structures. Unfortunately the use of SCMs and low water cementitious ratios have led to others problems including shrinkage cracking and cement that is not fully hydrated. To help improve these characteristics a supply of additional curing water is needed throughout the cement matrix. Water supplied from saturated pores of expanded shale, clay, and slate lightweight aggregates has shown promise in several research projects. New York State has developed a program to examine the benefits of internal curing and has utilized the technology on several bridges throughout the state. This paper will discuss the performance and construction of several of these bridges.