ABSTRACT
Reinforced concrete structures are widely used for the construction of bridges with diverse magnitudes. According to Vayas and Iliopoulos (2014), this type of structure is chosen by many professionals due to its potential of use for the entire set – foundation, columns, beams, and slabs. Considering its large size, as an irreplaceable material, added to the difficulty of the logistics to interrupt the road, it is desired for this structure great durability, satisfactory performance and less impact from construction and demolition. These structures are specified in accordance to the potential agent of deterioration, considering the diferent expouse conditions related to the environment where the construction will be build. It is also considered in the structure’s design the types of stresses that the elements will be subjected. Furthermore, durability requirements are stated for a minimum service life period, which takes into account the maintainability degree, classified as replaceable, maintainable or not maintainable.
Several studies have been performed, associated to the application of innovative materials to promote such large durability and less environmental impact (Habert et al, 2012, Bouhaya, Le Roy, Feraille-Fresnet, 2009).
Given the goal of extending the construction’s lifespan, it is necessary to know its main agents of deterioration. In acoordance to Leitão et al (2011), in the case of an element subject to vehicles traffic, dynamic actions and deleterious mechanisms should also be considered. In Brazil, there are several technical standards covering the design of reinforced concrete structures, including documents for specific applications and characteristics of these elements, such as NBR 15200:2012 (for elements in fire situation) By analyzing the use of reinforced concrete structures in infrastructure element’s construction, there are regulations and technical standards for the components (NBR 9452:2012, NBR 7187:2003) and for its inspection, as the NBR 9452: 2012.
However, it has been denoted in these documents the lack of maintenance methods and durability ensurance of infrasctructure construction, as well as the minimum requirements to meet the desired service life. Thus, there is an urgent need for planning and carrying out preventive and corrective maintenance tasks, as well as to be followed by the constructive characteristics and materials used suitable for achieving performance and longevity. In this context, the goal of this paper is to gather the technical recommendations depicting the construction of reinforced concrete bridges, including the compilation of corrective and preventive maintenance references, in order to ensure durability with safe conditions of use.
