Development of Performance Parameters for the Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Girder Beams

Bridge inspections typically involve complex measurement criteria and take a long time. This study proposes a simpler inspection method that assesses the performance of reinforced concrete bridge girder beams. The method relies on crack length correlation with beam performance using theoretical approaches, Finite Element Model (FEM) simulations, and experimental testing. A reinforced concrete beam model is used to simulate similar flexural behavior to that of actual bridge girders. The results show that cracks form when concrete stress exceeds rupture stress, usually at 8%-12% of the ultimate capacity. Cracks grow until the steel reinforcement yields, which happens around 80%-90% of the ultimate capacity. Experimental crack length data at ultimate capacity align closely with FEM simulations, with a ratio of 0.92. In contrast, the results differ significantly from the theoretical predictions, with a ratio of 1.54. The study introduces six performance levels for reinforced concrete beams, linking crack length to beam performance. These parameters will help estimate bridge girder performance through visual crack assessments.