STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE OLDEST EXISTING WEATHERING STEEL BRIDGE IN JAPAN

Abstract

 Constructed fifty years ago, the Chita 2nd bridge is the oldest weathering steel bridge in Japan. The corrosion properties and structural performance of the bridge were investigated herein to evaluate the degree of deterioration. The bridge was found to be in good condition, despite being exposed to high quantities of airborne salt. The corrosion environment characteristics around the bridge were studied to understand the reason for bridge’s sustainability. Furthermore, the remaining lifetime of the Chita 2nd bridge was estimated, considering both the corrosion properties and structural performance.