Rehabilitation of Steel Orthotropic Deck Bridges using High Strength Concrete Overlay renovation technique

Several large steel bridges in the Netherlands have been given an extended service life by the application of a thin layer of reinforced high strength concrete to the surface of the steel orthotropic deck. This innovative... [ view full abstract ]

Several large steel bridges in the Netherlands have been given an extended service life by the application of a thin layer of reinforced high strength concrete to the surface of the steel orthotropic deck. This innovative renovation technique has been subject to ongoing development since 2000, and there is now a growing body of experience with regard to the design, construction and maintenance aspects associated with this product.
At the end of 1990’s the Dutch highway authority (RWS) were faced with an increasing asset maintenance demand due to fatigue damage in a number of the important bridges on the road network. A renovation solution to address the issue has been developed from concept stage to implementation on some of its most critical bridges.
The paper will provide an overview of the development of this strengthening method. The design principles of the system will be presented and the important characteristics discussed. Some of the experiences from an ongoing major renovation programme will be shared, in terms of ongoing developments in the design, specification, and execution of this product.