Minimum Thickness of Long-Span RC Deck Slabs for 2-girder Bridges Designed by 80 MPa Concrete

To ensure durability and light weight of bridges, high-strength concrete is required for long-span deck slabs. Such a technology eventually extends the life of bridges and improves the economic efficiency. The results of this study suggests a formula for calculating the minimum thickness of long-span deck slabs built with high strength concrete. The minimum thickness is proposed based on the limit states indicated in the CEB-FIP Model Code and the Korean Highway Bridge Design Code(limit state design). The design compressive strength of concrete used for the study is 80MPa. Moreover, the required thickness for satisfying the flexural capacity and limiting deflection is estimated considering the limit state load combination. The formula for minimum thickness of deck slabs is proposed considering the ultimate limit state(ULS) and the serviceability limit state(SLS) of bridges, and by comparing the Korean Highway Bridge Design Code and similar previous studies. According to the research finding, the minimum thickness of long-span deck slab is more influenced by deflection limit than flexural capacity.