A bridge material that is split and spalled is what material?

A bridge material that is split and spalled is what material?

• A. Concrete
• B. Steel
• C. Wood
• D. Masonry

Answer: (D)

Spalling and splitting show up when a material’s surface flakes away due to internal stresses from moisture and freeze-thaw cycles. Masonry—brick or stone held together with mortar—is particularly prone because it’s porous and relatively brittle. Water in the pores freezes, expands, and pushes apart the surface, causing chunks to detach and the face to crack or split. This creates the characteristic split, spalled appearance on masonry bridge surfaces. While concrete can spall, the classic description of split and spalled surfaces aligns with masonry deterioration, especially in older or weathered bridges.

Spalling and splitting show up when a material’s surface flakes away due to internal stresses from moisture and freeze-thaw cycles. Masonry—brick or stone held together with mortar—is particularly prone because it’s porous and relatively brittle. Water in the pores freezes, expands, and pushes apart the surface, causing chunks to detach and the face to crack or split. This creates the characteristic split, spalled appearance on masonry bridge surfaces. While concrete can spall, the classic description of split and spalled surfaces aligns with masonry deterioration, especially in older or weathered bridges.