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DOI: 10.15862/14SATS425 (https://doi.org/10.15862/14SATS425)

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Solodkov I.I., Ovchinnikov I.I. Ways to improve the durability of reinforced concrete bridge structures (primary, secondary and special protection). Russian Journal of Transport Engineering. 2025; 12(4). Available at: https://t-s.today/PDF/14SATS425.pdf (in Russian). DOI: 10.15862/14SATS425

Ways to improve the durability of reinforced concrete bridge structures (primary, secondary and special protection)

Solodkov Ivan Ivanovich
Industrial University of Tyumen, Tyumen, Russia
E-mail: Solodkov_01@inbox.ru
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-1888-2160

Ovchinnikov Ilya Igorevich
Industrial University of Tyumen, Tyumen, Russia
E-mail: bridgeart@mail.ru

Abstract. This article examines the premature decline in the service life of reinforced concrete bridge structures caused by the combined corrosion of concrete and reinforcement. It focuses on the contradiction between the long design life of the structures (70–100 years) and the actual service life of their corrosion protection, which is often exhausted within 30–50 years.

The paper presents a comprehensive methodology based on a systemic, three-tiered approach combining primary, secondary, and special protection. The mechanisms of the main types of corrosion (leaching, acid, and crystallization) are analyzed in detail, with a particular emphasis on the role of carbon dioxide corrosion (carbonation), which leads to reinforcement depassivation and shrinkage cracking. Within the framework of primary protection, key design, technological, and material measures are systematized, including the use of special cements, mineral additives, corrosion-resistant reinforcement, and water-cement ratio control. For secondary protection, an analysis of modern paint, coating, and impregnation systems was conducted, and quantitative criteria for their effectiveness were formulated. Specialized and innovative methods, such as electrochemical protection, external carbon fiber reinforcement (CFRP), and the use of composite rebar, were considered.

Based on the analysis, principles for developing a comprehensive protection strategy were developed, incorporating synergy of measures, economic feasibility throughout the lifecycle, and a targeted consideration of operating conditions. A structured sequence of implementation stages is proposed — from diagnostics and design to quality control and monitoring during operation. The conclusion demonstrates that systemic integration of all protection levels allows not only to achieve but also to exceed the standard service life of bridge structures, minimizing risks to transport safety and reducing overall maintenance costs.

Keywords: reinforced concrete bridge structures; durability of corrosion protection; corrosion destruction of concrete and reinforcement; stability of primary concrete protection; effectiveness of secondary protective coatings; service life of protective systems; integrated protection strategy; resource management of bridge structures

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