When looking at our nation’s infrastructure, it is not difficult to see there are many bridges in desperate need of rehabilitation. According to the latest Infrastructure Report Card, the U.S. has 614,387 bridges, almost four in ten of which are 50 years or older and nearing the end of their intended service life. In 2016, nearly 10% of these bridges (56,007) were considered to be structurally deficient.
When considering the durability of a bridge, there are two main areas thought to be the most vulnerable components:
- The concrete deck
- The untreated steel rebar used to provide structural reinforcement
