| | This research examines the deterioration processes affecting New Jersey concrete barriers along the Zenica-Sarajevo corridor, a vital transportation artery in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Employing a comprehensive approach that integrates visual inspections, drone-based imagery, and geospatial analysis, the study pinpoints several key factors driving barrier degradation. These include mechanical impacts, chemical corrosion, environmental stressors, and issues stemming from construction practices. The most prevalent forms of damage observed were cracking, spalling, and reinforcement corrosion, particularly pronounced in areas with heavy traffic and insufficient drainage. Environmental factors, namely freeze-thaw cycles and chloride ingress from de-icing salts were found to exacerbate deterioration, with damage patterns varying significantly by location due to differences in local climate, traffic intensity, and material quality. The findings underscore the necessity of proactive maintenance regimes, such as routine post-winter inspections and targeted repairs, alongside the implementation of design improvements. Recommendations include adopting corrosion-resistant reinforcements, optimizing drainage, and considering alternative barrier profiles like the F-shape to enhance durability. While the study offers valuable insights, it acknowledges limitations, such as its reliance on surface-level observations and the restriction to a single season of monitoring. Future research should incorporate long-term data collection and in-depth material testing. In summary, the study highlights the importance of tailoring infrastructure management strategies to specific regional conditions in order to maximize the longevity and safety of concrete barriers. |
