Based on four-year field inspection and investigation on deck pavement of mastic asphalt on Jiangyin Bridge, cracking causes of mastic asphalt are studied. Cracks of deck pavement are summarized on crack length and width to get a clear view of their propagations. Traffic surveys including traffic volume, axle load and vehicle speed were also conducted to assess their influences. Samples taken on-site were tested with pulling-out test and fatigue test to benchmark their properties. According to the inspection and tests results, it is concluded that the cracks are induced by rutting and fatigue. Lack of fatigue resistance, not well bonded to the steel deck and insufficient high temperature stability are supposed to be the main reasons as well as high density of low speed, excessively overloaded trucks.
