Vermont's Experience with Bridge Deck Protective Systems

Vermont's Experience with Bridge Deck Protective Systems
Author: RI. Frascoia
Publisher:
Total Pages: 13
Release: 1977
Genre: Bridge decks
ISBN:

Intrusion of moisture and deicing chemicals into reinforced concrete bridge decks results in premature deterioration of the concrete and corrosion of the reinforcing steel. Vermont's search for an effective waterproofing system which would seal bridge decks and thus prevent intrusion of the moisture and chlorides has resulted in the application and evaluation of 29 different membrane systems since 1971. A number of the protective membranes have been in service for sufficient time to draw conclusions on their effectiveness. The results of followup evaluations show that several systems have provided complete protection to the bridge decks while a number of other materials have prevented chloride intrusion except in areas where deicing chemicals are often trapped due to the ponding effect of curb lines and expansion dams. Such results suggest that the simple and inexpensive materials could be specified for sealing the major portion of a deck surface if a compatible and impervious membrane material is placed over poorly drained areas. Difficulties encountered with the application of sophisticated and expensive membrane systems have resulted in a theory that the search for the most effective waterproofing system should concentrate on uncomplicated and less costly materials which could be applied without difficulty.

Waterproofing Membranes for Concrete Bridge Decks

Waterproofing Membranes for Concrete Bridge Decks
Author: David G. Manning
Publisher: Transportation Research Board
Total Pages: 80
Release: 1995
Genre: House & Home
ISBN: 9780309058636

This synthesis will be of interest to research, specifications, materials, design, and construction engineers; contract and specification administrators; agency project managers and staff; and concrete bridge deck construction contractors. This synthesis describes the state of the practice with respect to the development and present status of waterproofing membranes for concrete bridge decks. This report of the Transportation Research Board describes the use of waterproofing systems applied to new bridge decks and the rehabilitation of deteriorated concrete bridge decks. In addition, this synthesis describes current practice with regard to methods for assessing the effectiveness of membranes, criteria for use, installation practices, and factors that affect the performance of waterproofing systems in new construction and rehabilitation. Suggestions for future research are also included.

Implementation of Performance-Based Bridge Deck Protective Systems

Implementation of Performance-Based Bridge Deck Protective Systems
Author: Robert Frosch
Publisher:
Total Pages:
Release: 2013-12-05
Genre:
ISBN: 9781622602759

When considering the durability of a bridge, the concrete deck is often the most vulnerable component and can be the limiting factor affecting service life. To enhance the durability of both new and existing bridge decks, a protective system is often provided to prevent or delay the ingress of chlorides and moisture to the reinforcing steel. In the state of Indiana, this protective system typically comes in the form of a concrete overlay or a thin polymer overlay. Another protective system widely used in the United States and in many countries internationally consists of a waterproofing membrane overlaid with asphaltic concrete. Due to a history of poor performance in the 1970's and the 1980's, a moratorium has been placed on the installation of waterproofing membranes in Indiana. This study reevaluates the state-of-the-practice of bridge deck protection in Indiana with the goal of enhancing the Indiana Department of Transportation's toolbox of bridge deck protective systems. Consideration was given to the state-of-the-art and state-of-the-practice in bridge deck protective systems used by other state transportation agencies as well as by international transportation agencies. Research focused on the practice of installing waterproofing membranes and the latest technologies being used. Based on the information gathered, various protective systems were evaluated, and recommendations are provided on the selection of the most appropriate systems for various bridge conditions. Furthermore, a recommendation is provided to remove the moratorium on membrane systems so that the benefits of this system can be more fully explored and realized.