Development and implementation of an experimental program to investigate cost-effective concrete bridge deck preservation methods

John Paul Lyrenmann, Purdue University

Abstract

The deterioration of bridge decks has been identified as a major problem in the State of Indiana. The primary cause of this deterioration is salt water ingress from the application of deicing salts during the winter. Deicing chemicals placed on the road mix with water and enter the deck through cracks and the pore structure of the concrete. This results in corrosion of the reinforcing steel and scaling of the surface, which leads to a shortened bridge deck life and costly deck replacement. The goal of the research conducted in this study is to develop and implement an experimental program to investigate potentially effective and economical methods for preventing corrosion to extend the life of bridge decks in Indiana. Preservation methods considered in the study include sealing cracks in bridge decks, coating the entire top surface of bridge decks, and methods related to the specific application of these materials. The study was completed in several phases including: a survey of other state departments of transportation, a literature review, and development and implementation of a durability testing program. The first phase involved conducting a survey of other state departments of transportation (DOT) to determine the types of bridge deck preservation programs that are currently in use, the methods that they have employed in the past, and the perceived level of success with these programs and methods. The literature review was conducted concurrently with the DOT survey. Reports on related studies from other states, the Midwest in particular, and relevant journals provided information on specific products that performed well, along with the characteristics of broader chemical families and their best uses. Other variables that could influence the effectiveness of sealers were also identified during the literature survey. The results of the DOT survey and literature review were used to determine the materials and methods that would be further investigated in the durability portion of the study. Lastly, a series of macrocell specimens, modified from that required by ASTM Standard G109, were constructed, and exposure testing was initiated to examine the effectiveness of the sealer materials and application methods that were identified. The development of the macrocell specimens, preparation of test specimens, and overview of the exposure process are documented.

Degree

M.S.C.E.

Advisors

Frosch, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Civil engineering|Transportation planning|Materials science

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