Collapse Report Stirs Debate on Epoxies

This article discusses developments among contractors and regulators following the July 10 National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report on possible causes of a 2006 ceiling collapse in a Boston I-90 tunnel (part of the Big Dig) when bolts holding panels in the roof gave way, killing a woman in a car below. NTSB concluded that the fast-set epoxy used on the bolts caused the collapse. Possible criminal charges are being considered by state law enforcement officials. Contractors responsible for different phases of the bolt and ceiling installation, including the firm that supplied the epoxy, are seeking to clarify how the NTSB findings characterize their liability for the accident. Details are given on the bolt and hanger system used in the ceiling, results of inspections of epoxy applications, and the rounds of inspections and communications between various parties to the project. NTSB recommendations include banning epoxy in overhead-load situations until further tests permit clearer standards.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/08919526
• Authors:
  • Angelo, William J
• Publication Date: 2007-7-23

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Illustrations; Photos;
• Pagination: pp 10-12
• Serial:
  • ENR
  • Volume: 259
  • Issue Number: 3
  • Publisher: McGraw-Hill, Incorporated
  • ISSN: 0891-9526

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Anchor bolts; Creep; Epoxides; Failure analysis; Tunnel lining
• Identifier Terms: Interstate 90
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Highways; I54: Construction of Tunnels;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01055862
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 1 2007 12:45PM