Applicability of Decorative Concrete Overlays as a Context Sensitive Solution for Transportation Infrastructure

This research seeks to determine the feasibility of decorative concrete overlay (DCO) as an aesthetic treatment for new and existing concrete infrastructure components. The research approach includes exposing DCO-treated concrete samples to various strength and environmental conditions in the laboratory and field. Laboratory testing such as ultraviolet light exposure, flexural fatigue strength, 90-day salt-ponding and 90-day sodium-chloride tank submersion were conducted on two sets of concrete specimens aged 28 days and 125 days. The DCO designs evaluated in the research included a monochromatic-textured brick pattern and a polished multi-tone stone pattern. After 1500 hours of exposure to cycles of moisture and light, the accelerated ultraviolet light exposure showed no visual signs of surface degradation on DCO in terms of fading, color change, lustre, or cracking. The flexural fatigue testing results proved very effective given that the bond between concrete and DCO remained intact under cyclical loading. Also, the 90-day salt-ponding test displayed expected side effects of rusting under their metal embankment walls. Only sections in direct contact with the metal were permanently stained while all other sections were not affected. The sodium chloride submersion brick-designed specimens left behind minor salt-like residues on portions of the surface. Ultimately, the durability, versatility, and ease of application of DCO allude to its viability for aesthetically treating infrastructure.