EXPANSION JOINTS IN RCC BRIDGES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO REPAIRS TO EXPANSION JOINTS OF THE BRIDGE ACROSS RIVER YAMUNA, NEAR I.T.O., INDRAPRASTHA ESTATE, NEW DELHI

This paper explains the development of a design for the repair of expansion joints on the I.T.O. Bridge. It also discusses types of expansion joint design and how well they perform under various conditions of traffic. A unique and simple method of repair was designed for the movements occurrng under 1-way traffic. Bitumastic treatment of average thickness of 25 mm including filling of depressions was considered the best method. This also prevented overloading of the structure by adopting thicker layers of alternative specifications. The design criteria of expansion joints are examined, and the details are given of the laying of bitumen mastic on the Bridge. The performance record of expansion joints reveals that failures have occurred due to inadequate anchorage of the joint, the sealant not being able to provide a water-proof joint and due to improper concreting near the joints.