In: Civil Engineering
Grouting: Grouting is the process of injection of pumpable materials into a soil or rock formation to change its physical characteristics.
Grout is the primary protection for the Post tensionedsystem;
therefore, careful attention must be given to the grouting process. Cementitious grout provides an alkaline environment that passivates the surface of the steel which inhibits the corrosion process.
The grout must surround and be bonded with the cable to be effective. Specially blended grout materials, correctly mixed and effectively pumped into the tendon, are key to a successful grouting operation.
The durability of the structure is directly effected by the quality of the grouting. It is essential that an adequate grout plan be developed and executed.
Grout in cable of suspension bridges serves the following purposes:
(i) Protect the tendon against corrosion.
(ii) Improve the ultimate capacity of tendon.
(iii) Provide a bond between the structural member and the tendon.