Fatigue Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Decks under Moving Wheel Loads: A State-of-the-Art Review
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 29, Issue 11
Abstract
This article provides a comprehensive state-of-the-art review of research on bridge deck fatigue under moving wheel loads and compares it to conventional fixed-point pulsating load fatigue. An overview and a brief history of the evolution of this test method from around the world are provided. The effect of key parameters on fatigue life and performance under moving loads are discussed, including loading magnitude and stress ratio, loading footprint, boundary conditions, loading eccentricity, loading frequency, dynamic effect and impact, reinforcement layout, slab thickness, crack control, concrete strength, and environmental exposure conditions. The fatigue accumulation rule and the incremental step (staircase) rolling load method are discussed. Cracking and failure mechanisms in slabs under rolling loads are presented and compared. It is clearly demonstrated that fixed-point pulsating fatigue loads inadequately simulate fatigue damage, stiffness degradation, and cracking patterns induced by rolling loads. For example, one rolling load cycle is shown to be equivalent to 80–1,800 pulsating load cycles. Varying the magnitude of the rolling load (dynamic effect) further reduces the fatigue life. Decreasing the spacing of the transverse rebar and compression reinforcement both can increase susceptibility to crack initiation, potentially reducing fatigue life. Environmental factors, particularly moisture intrusion, drastically reduced fatigue life. A conversion factor of stiffness degradation from pulsating to equivalent rolling load fatigue is proposed. Finally, recommendations for future work in this field are proposed.
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Data Availability Statement
All data, models, and codes generated or used during the study appear in the published article.
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Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 29 • Issue 11 • November 2024
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© 2024 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 29, 2024
Accepted: May 31, 2024
Published online: Sep 13, 2024
Published in print: Nov 1, 2024
Discussion open until: Feb 13, 2025
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