Impact of Environmental Factors on the Condition Rating of Concrete Bridge Decks Using Statistical-Distribution Methods

Abstract

Keeping bridges in good condition during their service lives continues to be a challenge. Additionally, the condition assessment of concrete bridge decks is complicated as it is influenced by several factors. Environmental factors are among the main reasons behind the deterioration of concrete bridge decks. Therefore, studying the impact of environmental factors is a significant part of the condition assessment of concrete bridge decks. In this study, the condition ratings of concrete bridge decks were used to investigate whether there is a universal model that can represent the impact of environmental factors on deterioration rates of concrete bridge decks in the US. The results showed that the best deterioration model varied from one state to another, and there was no universal statistical prediction model that can be developed for all states. Additionally, it was observed that the Weibull distribution method was the best model for the Southern, Southeast, and Western Regions, while the lognormal method was the best for the Northeast, Midwest, and High Plain regions. Furthermore, it was concluded that environmental factors have a significant impact on the deterioration of concrete bridge decks. This paper will help transportation network agencies better plan for the maintenance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction actions and funding. Additionally, it can help in establishing optimal guidelines to maintain bridges based on their climatic regions.