ABSTRACT
The 5,000 bridges which are maintained by ASFiNAG (Austrian highway operator) are its main asset. Despite all maintenance efforts, these structures are still subjected to degradation, thus, leading to high expenses. Decisions for these maintenance actions are usually driven by the actual condition of the structure or deterministic (conservative) maintenance cycles proposed by guidelines. To ensure that a high road net availability can be provided at moderate costs, the effectiveness of possible maintenance methods, as well as their maintenance intervals must be assessed. The aim of this paper is to determine condition and degradation (condition indices) by using objective indicators, like humidity, electrical resistivity and corrosion potential. For this purpose, long-term measurements from an overpass situated in the vicinity of Vienna where different maintenance measures (Hydrophobic treatment, Coating) were applied. The monitoring data allows to continuously determine the degradation, as well as the effectiveness of repair measures. Thus, a direct statement can be made regarding the effectiveness of the maintenance actions and thereafter important conclusions can be made for future repair measures and repair intervals.
