Q. Why we need Transition slabs in bridges?
In a number of designs, transition slabs are provided on the approach to bridges. For example soils in embankment supporting the roads may settle because of insufficient compaction and sharp depressions will be developed at the junction with relatively rigid end of bridge decks. This creates problem of poor riding surfaces of carriageway and proper maintenance has to be carried out to rectify the situation. Consequently transition slabs are sometimes designed at these junctions to distribute the relative settlements between approaching embankments and end of bridge decks sothat quality of riding surface between these junctions can be considerably improved andsubstantial savings can be obtained by requiring less maintenance.