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DOI: 10.15862/02SATS226 (https://doi.org/10.15862/02SATS226)

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Alexeeva D.V., Bikova N.M. The current state of expansion joints of highway bridges. Russian Journal of Transport Engineering. 2026; 13(2). Available at: https://t-s.today/PDF/02SATS226.pdf (in Russian). DOI: 10.15862/02SATS226

The current state of expansion joints of highway bridges

Alexeeva Darya Vladimirovna
Irkutsk State Transport University, Irkutsk, Russia
E-mail: darya-alex603@mail.ru
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1844-5125
RSCI: https://elibrary.ru/author_profile.asp?id=1340852

Bikova Natalya Mikhailovna
Irkutsk State Transport University, Irkutsk, Russia
E-mail: bikovanm@mail.ru
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0676-4752
RSCI: https://elibrary.ru/author_profile.asp?id=518344

Abstract. Expansion joints in highway bridges are a critical element of transport structures, operating under intense dynamic loads, temperature fluctuations, and environmental influences. The combination of these factors often leads to premature failure, reduced traffic safety, and increased operating costs. The objective of this review is to analyze the current state of expansion joint designs, systematize the main operational problems and their causes, and assess prospects for improving the reliability of these elements, taking into account international experience and regional specifics. The authors examine the purpose, main operational requirements, and classification of structures based on the gap bridging method. The advantages and disadvantages of each type are presented, as well as the evolution of joint use in the Russian Federation, with an emphasis on import substitution after 2022. The article examines the main types of operational failures and systematizes their causes. International experience is summarized, including the European approach to testing modular expansion joints and Japanese developments in seismic protection. Based on an analysis of 179 bridges and overpasses in the Irkutsk region, regional failure patterns were identified, driven by the harsh continental climate and high seismic activity. The study identified three main groups of failure causes and proposed ways to improve the reliability of expansion joints in challenging natural and climatic conditions.

It was concluded that improving the reliability of expansion joints requires improved calculation methods that take actual movements into account, strict installation control, and adaptation of structures to regional natural conditions.

Keywords: expansion joint; highway bridges; classification of expansion joints; operational failures; international experience; seismic impact; regional features

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