What is the role of secondary reinforcement in a concrete deck?

Secondary reinforcement in a concrete deck primarily plays a crucial role in assisting temperature and shrinkage control. When concrete hardens and cures, it undergoes changes in temperature and moisture content, which can lead to cracking if these stresses are not adequately managed. Secondary reinforcement, often in the form of light steel meshes or bars, helps to minimize these cracks by providing additional tensile strength that works in conjunction with the concrete's natural compressive strength. This reinforcement is not intended to bear primary loads but rather to enhance the durability of the deck by accommodating movements without compromising structural integrity.

Understanding this role is essential, as prioritizing temperature and shrinkage control through appropriate reinforcement strategies is vital to prolonging the lifespan of concrete decks, thus ensuring their performance under varied environmental conditions.