Integrated bridge deck performance index for reinforced concrete bridges

Abstract Safety, durability, and functionality of reinforced concrete (RC) bridge decks are critical for effective inspection and maintenance. The most popular technique is visual inspection (VI), but it is rather subjective and has not much ability to reveal subsurface defects like delamination and corrosion. To address these limitations, this study integrated non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, including Infrared Thermography (IRT) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), into a bridge deck performance index (BDPI) for enhanced evaluation. BDPI was developed with the help of fuzzy mathematics and the combination of Compromise Solution (CoCoSo) technique so that it can facilitate the effective multi-criteria decision-making process. The approach was validated by a full-scale RC bridge deck case study. The results demonstrated that the integrated BDPI significantly improves assessment reliability compared to VI alone. Quantitatively the proposed method resulted in about 50% reduction in inspection time, 50% reduction in cost and manpower and increased the accuracy of defect detection by adding subsurface evaluation. The results elaborated that the use of VI alone to measure a bridge deck could result in an inaccurate performance index, but the use of NDT methods will offer a more reliable score. The suggested BDPI provides a viable decision-support framework to help transportation entities prioritize their maintenance strategies, optimize repair, and prolong the life of older bridge infrastructure.