Evaluating Performance and Cost-Effectiveness of Expansion Joint Systems at Approach Slab to Transition Approach Slab on Illinois Tollway Bridges: A Comparative Analysis

Bridge expansion joints are essential components in the construction of bridges, serving an important role in ensuring structural integrity and safety while accommodating dynamic forces and environmental factors. The primary objective of this research project is to summarize the performance of expansion joints in the Illinois Tollway Bridges at the approach slab-to-transition approach slab, conduct a comprehensive survey of the state Department of Transportation (DOT) to compare the performance of different expansion joint systems, and perform a life-cycle cost analysis for different expansion joint systems. The Illinois Tollway system employs four distinct types of expansion joints at the bridge approach slab-to-transition approach slab. These expansion joint types are neoprene joints, pourable joints, preformed seal joints, and strip seal joints. Among these, neoprene and pourable joints represent historical practices, while preformed joint seal and strip seal joints represent more recent practices. The inspection of bridge expansion joints, which have the same average daily truck traffic and were installed within a specified date range, showed that the pourable joint seal and strip seal joint demonstrate a better condition state than the preformed joint seal. Analysis of the survey results revealed that strip seal joints have the best performance and lifespan compared to the other types of joints. The most common challenges encountered in the expansion joints are debris accumulation and separation of the seal from the substrate. The life-cycle cost analysis revealed that the strip seal joint with ultra-high-performance concrete headers is the most cost-effective expansion joint system.