20-year Performance of Bridge Maintenance Systems

During 1986-1987, the New Jersey Department of Transportation applied 47 different coating systems to various individual spans of the Mathis Bridge. The eastbound Mathis Bridge carries Route 37 over the Barnegat Bay from Toms River to Seaside Heights, NJ. Each experimental system was applied to a complete span, with each span comprising approximately 4,000 sq ft of steel. Experimental coating systems included metallizing, various zinc-based systems, various levels of surface preparation, and several overcoating strategies. This article presents results of an inspection conducted in 2007, fully 20 years after the initial coating application. The inspection showed varied service lives associated with the different coating systems. Some of the systems were in excellent condition after 20 years, while others had completely broken down. In addition to the present condition of the test spans, the article reviews historical performance of the various coating systems as well as the applied cost. Lastly, several important implications for maintenance planners are presented, including cost benefit calculations and risk reduction strategies.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/87551985
• Authors:
  • Ault, J Peter
  • Farschon, Christopher L
• Publication Date: 2009-1

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 16-18, 21-24, 26, 29-32
• Serial:
  • Journal of Protective Coatings and Linings
  • Volume: 26
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: Technology Publishing Company
  • ISSN: 8755-1985

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Anticorrosion coatings; Benefit cost analysis; Bridge engineering; Condition surveys; Corrosion protection; Inspection; Service life; Surface preparation
• Identifier Terms: Mathis Bridge (New Jersey); New Jersey Department of Transportation
• Uncontrolled Terms: Bridge maintenance
• Geographic Terms: Barnegat Bay (New Jersey)
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Highways; I24: Design of Bridges and Retaining Walls;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01121805
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 17 2009 12:31PM