More durable modular expansion joint constructions for road bridges

Abstract

Relevant aspects in the design of modular expansion joints are the high fatigue stress caused by heavy load traffic and the corrosion protection. Currently, corrosion damage is often not limited to the traversable surface. Therefore, more durable expansion joints are highly desirable to extend their service life. The FOSTA research project P1574 resulted from the need for durable expansion joints and thus is aimed at hot-dip galvanized structures. In this project about 14.000 individual damages on 6.300 modular expansion joints were evaluated, relevant hot-dip-galvanizing parameters were investigated and recommendations for hot-dip galvanizing-compatible constructions were made. In addition, the fatigue strength of existing constructions has been evaluated with regard to the current and upcoming version of Eurocode 1993-1-9. This evaluation will be verified in the course of cyclic tests and numerical investigations. A monitoring concept is to be designed according to the requirements of the modular expansion joints and the corresponding neuralgic points.