What type of bridge superstructure is composed of a reinforced concrete slab?

A slab bridge is characterized specifically by its construction using a reinforced concrete slab as the primary superstructure. This type of bridge relies on the strength and durability of the concrete slab to carry loads, often spanning shorter distances. The reinforced concrete provides the necessary structural integrity to support vehicular traffic or pedestrian use.

In a slab bridge, the design is straightforward and offers an efficient way to create a robust surface without the need for additional structural elements such as beams or trusses. This makes slab bridges particularly suitable for applications where load requirements are moderate and spans are relatively short.

The construction technique generally involves pouring concrete into a formwork that maintains the desired shape and dimensions of the slab, reinforcing it with steel bars or mesh to provide additional tensile strength. This contrasts with other types of bridges, which utilize different structural elements such as beams, arches, or trusses to distribute loads across greater spans or varying geometries.