Mechanisms of Defects Formation of Waterproofing Membranes on Concrete Bridge Decks

Paper describes the different mechanisms of blistering of the bituminous waterproofing membranes, which often arise on bridge decks. The domestic cases are shown and the most unexpected examples of defects are presented. Authors make an attempt to discuss the most possible mechanisms of blistering of the insulation. Investigations done on site and in laboratory present the thermal loading on the membrane during the application; the influence of laying a hot mastic asphalt and a stone mastic asphalt, as a subsequent layers of the bridge pavement. Moreover, the conditions in the adhesive connection between the cement concrete slab and bituminous insulation are tested and presented. A potential contribution of the concrete surface layer in the observed blistering phenomenon is taken into account.