Title: Nineteen Year Performance of Polymer Concrete Bridge

Author(s): Michael Sprinkel

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 169

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 42-74

Keywords: Bridge decks; epoxy resins; permeability; polymer concrete; skid resistance

DOI: 10.14359/5930

Date: 5/1/1997

Abstract:
The performance of polymer concrete bridge deck overlays ranging in age from 6 to 19 years is presented. The performance is based on tests for tensile bond strength, permeability to chloride ion, thickness and skid number. The physical and mechanical properties of the concretes used, the types of uses, the application methods, and the economics, are also described. It is shown that multiple-layer epoxy, multiple-layer epoxy urethane, and premixed polyester styrene polymer concrete overlays can provide skid resistance and protection against intrusion by chloride ions for 20 years or more and are an economical technique for extending the life of concrete decks reinforced with black steel, particularly when overlays must be constructed during off-peak traffic periods to minimize inconvenience to motorists. Also, multiple-layer polyester overlays have a life of ten years.