Title: Performance of Multiple Layer Polymer Concrete Overlays on Bridge Decks

Author(s): Michael M. SprinkelI

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 116

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 61-96

Keywords: aggregates; basalt; bonding; bridge decks; epoxy resins; methyl methacrylate; performance; permeability; polyester resins; polymer concrete; resurfacing; silica; skid resistance; tests; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/2851

Date: 8/1/1989

Abstract:
Presents 6-year results of a study undertaken to evaluate multiple-layer polymer concrete overlays (MLPCO) over a 10-year period. The paper indicates that an overlay with low permeability and high skid resistance can be successfully installed by a contractor, state, or federal labor forces with minimum traffic disruption. The MLPCO evaluated were constructed with four polyester resins and silica sand, a polyester para-resin and silica sand, two flexible epoxies and basalt aggregate, and three EP5-LV epoxies and silica sand. A single-layer high molecular weight methacrylate overlay was also evaluated. With the exception of the overlay constructed with the polyester para-resin, the initial condition of the 20 overlays evaluated between 1981 and 1987 was good to excellent from the standpoint of permeability, skid resistance, and bond, although some overlays were better than others. Also, with the one exception, the overlays were in good-to-excellent condition after 1 year in service, but the permeability had increased and the bond strength and skid resistance had decreased significantly.