Counteracting Chloride-Induced Damage to Bridge Decks with Latex and Plastic

Salt used to control ice causes deterioration of reinforced concrete bridge decks, but recent developments, though still somewhat expensive, can prevent deterioration of existing decks. Concrete with a liquid latex admixture, about 100/yd² more expensive than portland cement concrete, can be used to construct an overlay. It is as strong as concrete, adheres to it well and prevents infiltration of chloride. Badly damaged decks can be repaired quickly and permanently using polymer concrete, so bridges needn’t be closed for a long time for permanent repairs or frequently for a succession of temporary repairs. Polymer concrete, which costs from –250/yd³ to –400/yd³, is a mixture of liquid plastic and aggregate; its compressive strength is greater than 500 psi after only 2 hr of curing. Case histories, references and material suppliers are cited.