Field Evaluation of Polyester-Polymer Concrete Overlays on Bridge Decks Using Nondestructive Testing
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 33, Issue 7
Abstract
The increased use of polyester-polymer concrete (PPC) overlays on bridge decks throughout the United States has created a need for more comprehensive information about their field performance. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the performance of PPC overlays constructed using two methods of deck preparation and enable further development of a new PPC specification. The scope of the research included nondestructive testing of two PPC test section placements and three PPC bridge deck overlay placements during and after construction. Specifically, hardness tests were performed on the test section placements, and hardness, skid resistance, acoustic impact-echo, and vertical electrical impedance tests were performed on each of the bridge deck overlay placements. In situ PPC properties were documented, and new recommendations regarding hardness testing, skid resistance testing, patching, and surface preparation were developed based on the findings. The results of the research demonstrate the use of nondestructive testing for evaluating the performance of PPC overlays and informing specification development.
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Data Availability Statement
All data, models, and code generated or used during the study appear in the published article.
Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge funding from UDOT for this research and the enthusiastic cooperation of UDOT personnel.
Disclaimer
The findings do not necessarily represent official UDOT policies.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 33 • Issue 7 • July 2021
Copyright
© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jun 6, 2020
Accepted: Dec 29, 2020
Published online: Apr 29, 2021
Published in print: Jul 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Sep 29, 2021
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