Variations in the Short- and Long-Term Characteristics of Bridge Concrete Due to Transportation Techniques

The short-term effects of pumping on concrete are well documented, although the long-term effects on concrete durability are not known. Pumping of concrete is widely used in large highway projects because of its convenience and economy of placement. Both types of effects were studied through collection and testing of 73 concrete samples from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) bridge construction sites before and after pumping. The tests performed were air content, slump, unit weight, compressive strength, rapid chloride permeability, and water permeability. The air content and the slump of concrete decreased by about 1 percent and 13 mm (0.5 in.) on average, respectively, due to pumping. The unit weight and compressive strength of concrete increased by about 24 kg/m³ (1.5 pcf) and 1.83 MPa (266 psi), respectively, due to pumping. Pumping decreased the water and chloride ion permeabilities in the majority of tested samples. Results show that pumping does not have detrimental effects on concrete properties; in fact, in many cases, it results in stronger, denser, and more durable concrete. Results indicate that pumping can be continued with confidence as a means of concrete placement in FDOT projects.