Preventing Concrete Deterioration in Bridge Structures: A Sustainability Issue

Increasing concrete durability yields significant economic benefits, and the associated environmental benefits make durability a critical sustainability issue. Numerous factors deteriorate concrete in bridge structures, but several primary means are available to address this deterioration on both new and existing structures. One form of gel forming chemical, utilizing a blend of sodium silicates, delivered with a surfactant, has been demonstrated to be a viable, cost-effective solution on both new and existing concrete. Test data are provided that confirm the efficacy in preventing chloride ion (salt) penetration and freeze-thaw damage. Because a single application protects the concrete for the life of the structure, this product category demonstrates that sustainability issues need not be neglected in bridge construction or maintenance.