Polymer Impregnated Bridge Slabs: Interim Report

Report No: 80-R34

Published in 1979

About the report:

The procedure used for producing precast slabs of polymer impregnated concrete (PIC) and described in this report was generally satisfactory from an operational standpoint. A strength loss of 14%, attributable to the drying step, was observed in PIC cylinders; however, residual strengths for this class of concrete were satisfactory. The freeze-thaw durability of PIC specimens was essentially the same as the excellent performance exhibited by the control concrete. The average maximum depth of polymer impregnation observed in cores from the slabs was 1.0 in. (25 mm). The impregnated zone was found to contain a series of discontinuous microcracks resulting from the polymer treatment. These cracks allowed CI-penetrations at a depth of 0.8 in. (19 mm) that equaled or exceeded those at this depth in the control concrete. Additional research with experimental slabs is recommended with the objective of eliminating the microcracking associated with the impregnated zone.

Documents

80-R34

_{Disclaimer Statement:The contents of this report reflect the views of the author(s), who is responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Commonwealth Transportation Board, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. Any inclusion of manufacturer names, trade names, or trademarks is for identification purposes only and is not to be considered an endorsement.}

Authors

Samuel S. Tyson

Last updated: January 25, 2024