Highways Agency Reports

Abstract: An investigation has been performed on three pre-tensioned bridge beams hich are severly cracked. The cause of cracking was thought to be alkali silica reaction (ASR). However, the investigation has shown that the cause of cracking is uncertain. If the cracking is due to ASR then it is shown that ASR has little effect on the strength of a beam. Recommendations are made for loading testing two of the beams. Testing of the third beam is not recommended because it is unlikely that further expansion will occur. Hence, this beam is available for other uses.