This study develops a methodology for field appraisal and evaluates the effectiveness of three selected waterproofing membrane installations presently in service in the State of Washington. Based on the information obtained, none of the test installations had completely sealed the passage of salt into the concrete decks. "Active" and "uncertain" corrosion potentials existed at the rehabilitated portions; however, a decrease in corrosion activity since the time of rehabilitation was noted. Concrete deterioration after rehabilitation has occurred mainly within the boundaries of the repair work and original concrete, and it is more evident in areas with a shallower rebar depth.
It is recommended that future research include a greater number of bridge decks. In addition, service life performance data should be obtained through long-range monitoring of the installations.
August 15, 2007
Khossrow Babaei, Ronald L. Terrel.
Washington State Transportation Center (TRAC)
- # of Pages: 262 p., 7,241 KB (PDF)
- Subject: Bridge decks, Concrete, Corrosion protection, Deterioration, Field tests, Measures of effectiveness, Reinforced concrete bridges, Reinforcing bars, Waterproofing materials.
- Keywords: Waterproofing membrane, bridge deck, reinforced concrete, salt-induced corrosion, bridge deck testing methods, bridge deck deterioration.
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This abstract was last modified April 29, 2008