The report provides details and analyses of surveys undertaken on forty six corrugated steel buried structures: the surveys were undertaken in 1976/77 and 1989/90. The data from the surveys were used to assess the suitability of the backfills to the structures, to define the corrosivity of the sites, and to provide rankings of performance. By this means, the appropriateness of the specifications for the design of such structures were assessed and the principle agents of deterioration were identified. Most of that did seemed to be performing well. However, many of the others will not provide adequate service for their intended design life. The principal agent of degradation was hydraulic wear along hydraulic wear along the invert of water-carrying structures. Corrosion was promoted principally by the action of acidic water and also by chloride-ion rich water. Recommendations for modifying the requirements for the design and installation of corrugated steel buried structures are given in the report. (A)
Abstract