Application of Geothermal Bridge Deck Deicing Systems to Mitigate Concrete Deterioration from Temperature Fluctuation: Model Scale Experiments
Publication: Journal of Bridge Engineering
Volume 29, Issue 8
Abstract
This paper presents experimental testing evaluating the ability of a bridge deck deicing system to mitigate concrete deterioration from thermal stresses, frost action, and early-age cracking. Two experimental bridge deck models were constructed with embedded heat exchanger tubing and instrumented with thermocouples and strain gauges. Model 1 evaluated the efficiency of a deicing system in deicing and mitigating concrete deterioration from thermal stresses and frost action in concrete bridge decks, while Model 2 tested the effect of a deicing system on early-age cracking in bridge decks. The models were tested in a cold chamber laboratory under conditions representative of Montana's winter weather, with the system circulating warm fluid through the decks. Results showed the system succeeded in increasing concrete temperatures at all depths. While the system did not always raise temperatures above freezing, the consistent increases suggested that the system could enable deicing and mitigate frost action given certain conditions and higher inlet fluid temperatures. The system also successfully decreased thermal movement strain by up to 40% and reduced thermal shrinkage by decreasing the difference between peak cured and stabilized temperatures. Although the system did not eliminate thermal gradients, the maximum gradient induced was insignificant. Further testing is needed on strength impacts. Overall, the deicing system showed promise to reduce thermally induced deterioration in concrete bridge decks by regulating temperatures.
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Data Availability Statement
All data, models, or codes generated or used during the study are available upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge the financial support for this project provided by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). The authors also recognize and thank the MDT Research Section and the technical panel for participating in this project.
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Received: Dec 4, 2023
Accepted: Mar 14, 2024
Published online: May 17, 2024
Published in print: Aug 1, 2024
Discussion open until: Oct 17, 2024
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