Inspection and Monitoring of post‐tensioned bridges – advantages of electrically isolated tendons (EIT)

Abstract Problems in existing post‐tensioning structures with metallic ducts occur mainly related to corrosion of the tendons due chloride ingress at “weak points” structure. Despite this PT technology overall can be considered as proven and successful, sometimes severe damages collapses without warning are reported. As none inspection monitoring methods allows a complete meaningful evaluation structures, owners engineers face uncertainty regarding safety durability post‐tensioned ducts. The situation changed introduction corrugated polymer electrically isolated anchorages (EIT) civil engineering practice about 25 years ago. Polymer prevent aggressive substances into electrical isolation simple, hand‐held instrumentation over whole service life. Based on many results from laboratory field It is concluded that EIT smart structure not necessitating additional sensors. For first time most important structural elements, tendons, easily monitored initiation damage detected early.