What type of cracking in concrete bridge decks is primarily caused by restrained volume changes due to drying shrinkage?

The type of cracking in concrete bridge decks primarily caused by restrained volume changes due to drying shrinkage is typically referred to as plastic shrinkage cracking and early-age cracking. Drying shrinkage is the reduction in volume that occurs as concrete loses moisture after it has been placed. When this shrinkage is restrained by reinforcing steel, the base slab, or other elements, tensile stresses develop in the concrete. If these tensile stresses exceed the concrete's tensile strength, cracking will occur. These cracks often appear as shallow, irregular cracks on the surface of the deck soon after the concrete is poured and before it has gained significant strength. These cracks are particularly problematic as they provide pathways for water and de-icing salts to penetrate the concrete, accelerating deterioration.