This article presents general remarks on concrete bridge inspection,
taking Brazilian examples to illustrate the concepts and ideas shown in this work.
Brazilian bridges have a special role in the country ’ s viary system, permitting the
circulation of products and people. Despite its importance, many Brazilian bridges
are not treated correctly when affected by corrosive processes. Many of these
structures are built in reinforced concrete, although steel and wood bridges are
also found. This work describes the most common damages caused by corrosion in
Brazilian reinforced concrete bridges. The most relevant types of corrosion found in
Brazilian structures are presented, followed by a discussion of the main inspection
methods used for the detection of these corrosive processes, emphasising the
importance of visual verifi cations. The inspection procedures presented are also
useful for assessing defects in buildings and other concrete structures.