New Coating Protects Bridge Decks From Vehicle Fires

Posted: Nov 4, 2024

Utah State University researchers developed a protective coating to safeguard bridge decks overlaid with polymer concrete (PC), a material that is seeing an increased use because of its high bond strength, short curing times, good resistance to water and chlorine penetration, and excellent skid and abrasion resistance. However, the material is susceptible to degradation upon exposure to elevated temperatures such as those resulting from vehicle fires. The researchers simulated a vehicle fire on a large concrete slab overlaid with PC and found significant degradation in critical PC properties. As a remedy, this study suggested the application of an intumescent coating, which uses a blend of fire-retardant materials mixed into polyester binder resin, to cover the PC surface. Preliminary tests indicate that this method holds promise for mitigating the rapid deterioration of PC when exposed to elevated temperatures.

Shuna Ni, Ph.D.
former Utah State University faculty

Andrew D. Sorensen, Ph.D.
former Utah State University faculty

Impact of Vehicle Fires on Polymer Concrete Bridge Deck Overlays
MPC-24-536