Approach Slab
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Mahmood MuftiApproach Slab
Uploaded by
Mahmood MuftiApproach Slab
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https://www.dot.state.oh.us/Divisions/Engineering/Structures/bridge opera...
APPROACH SLABS
The approach slab provides a transition between roadway
pavement and the bridge. The approach slab acts as an
intermediate bridge to span the portion of embankment
directly behind the abutment/backwall which was excavated to
construct the abutment/backwall. This area is difficult to
compact after construction of the abutment/backwall and is
prone to settlement. The approach slab bridges the gap
between the rigid abutment and the undisturbed embankment
beyond the area excavated. On completely new roadways
(new alignments), there may not be an area of embankment
that will not settle somewhat even with optimum compaction;
thus the pavement end of the approach slab may still settle,
creating an uneven transition onto the bridge. Settled
approach slabs, if left uncorrected, cause undue impact upon
the bridge, especially from trucks. It is therefore important to
keep the approaches to the bridge as smooth as possible.
Diagram showing approach slab
in relation to roadway pavement
and abutment backwall.
Another common problem with approach slabs up until the early 1980s was the connection to the
backwalls. The approach slab rests in a notch (usually a 6-inch ledge) on the back of the
backwall. Quite often this ledge would shear off, allowing the approach slab to drop down directly
behind the backwalls. This condition was very difficult to repair without complete reconstruction of
the backwall and the approach slab. One very effective method of raising settled approach slabs
without complete reconstruction is called mudjacking. This involves drilling holes through the
approach slab and injecting a grout. Another method recently introduced into the market is the
use of expanding urethane foams.
Both are effective ways of raising approach slabs and will be discussed in the Repair section of
this Manual. Since the early 1980s, the approach slabs are now tied to the backwalls with an array
of reinforcing bars which will not allow the slabs to break away from the backwalls. In any case, it
is important to remember that approach slabs are designed to bridge over material that is prone to
settlement. Most existing slabs have voids under them so it is important to watch for signs of
settlement. One sign of possible problems is the existence of groundhog excavations under the
edges of approach slabs. These should be filled or covered up with rock as necessary.
It is unlikely that approach slabs will fail structurally because of their thickness (typically
15-inches) and the large amount of reinforcing steel in the bottom. The surface may spall or scale
like a bridge deck; in these cases, recommended repairs are similar to those for bridge decks.
Preventive Maintenance Recommendations:
Keep the joint between the backwall and approach slab sealed with rubberized asphalt.
Keep groundhogs from establishing homes under slabs.
05/18/16 10:53 PM
Approach Slab
2 of 2
https://www.dot.state.oh.us/Divisions/Engineering/Structures/bridge opera...
Groundhog hole under approach slab
05/18/16 10:53 PM
