Title: The New Sitra Bridges

Author(s): Mostafa A. Hassanain

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 32

Issue: 9

Appears on pages(s): 38-45

Keywords: chloride permeability testing; durability; marine concrete; mass concrete; post-tensioned concrete; stainless steel reinforcement

DOI:

Date: 9/1/2010

Abstract:
The Sitra bridges are part of a causeway linking the main island of Bahrain to the island of Sitra, forming one of the most strategic road links in the Kingdom. The causeway is located in the aggressive marine environment of the Arabian Gulf. After just 30 years in service, the structural condition of the concrete bridges deteriorated so significantly that it was not economically feasible to maintain or repair them. At a cost of $280 million, the existing causeway is being replaced. This article presents some aspects relevant to the specification and execution of structural concrete on this project to satisfy the client’s stringent requirements for durability in the aggressive environmental and climatic conditions of the Middle East.