How does delamination impact a bridge deck's performance?

Delamination negatively impacts a bridge deck's performance by reducing its structural capacity, accelerating deterioration, and creating safety hazards. Delamination is the separation of concrete layers within the deck, typically caused by corrosion of reinforcing steel or freeze-thaw cycles. This separation weakens the deck's ability to distribute loads, leading to increased stresses in the remaining sound concrete. Delamination also creates pathways for water and de-icing salts to penetrate the deck, accelerating corrosion of the rebar and further weakening the structure. As delamination progresses, the separated layers of concrete can break away, creating potholes or loose debris on the deck surface, posing a safety risk to vehicles and pedestrians. Delamination significantly reduces the service life of a bridge deck and requires timely repair to prevent further damage and ensure public safety.