In this Quick Chat, Gavin Jenkins, the senior managing editor of Roads and Bridges, discusses the accelerated long-life repair and preservation of concrete bridge decks with Chris Davis, the Eastern Manager of Engineering Sales for CTS Cement Manufacturing Corp.
Davis has over 40 years of experience in bridge and road repairs. In this video, he explains the most effective strategies for extending the lifespan of bridge decks, reducing construction time, and minimizing traffic disruptions.
One key point is the effectiveness of very early strength latex-modified concrete (VESLMC) which can last 25-30 years. It is used when low chloride ion permeability, corrosion resistance, and fast strength gain are desired. Davis shares a recent project in which 250 cubic yards of concrete were replaced over a weekend by using hydro demolition and VESLMC, significantly reducing traffic inconvenience.
Davis also emphasizes the importance of selecting the right materials, such as Rapid Set Cement with latex, sand and stone for large projects and modified concrete in bags for minor repairs. This has a fast cure time, allowing traffic to resume in just a few hours. Finally, he discusses the main causes of bridge deck deterioration, including the impact of the freeze-thaw cycle and de-icing techniques.
For more information on these techniques and materials, watch the full video above.
