Comprehensive feasibility evaluation of a high-performance mixture used as the protective course of steel bridge deck pavement

To improve the serviceability and extend the service life of steel bridge deck pavement (SBDP), a highperformance polymer mixture (HPPM) with high content polyurethane binder and great impermeability was proposed as the protective course of SBDP, and its feasibility as the protective course of SBDP was evaluated comprehensively from different perspectives. Firstly, the material characteristics of HPPM were evaluated through various mixture tests. Afterwards, the cooperative performances of this protective course were assessed through some designed composite structure tests. Finally, the structural performance of HPPM was investigated through the finite element model. Meanwhile, the widely used SBDP protective course materials were also tested for comparison study. Results show that the HPPM has high compressive strength, great cracking resistance and superior deformation compliance. It can improve the stability and cooperative deformation performance, and the reasonable distribution of stress for the composite SBDP structure. It could be a good material used as the protective course of SBDP.

Automated summary

This study proposes a high-performance polymer mixture (HPPM) as the protective course for steel bridge deck pavement (SBDP). The material characteristics, cooperative performances, and structural performance of HPPM were evaluated comprehensively through various tests. Comparison studies with other commonly used protective course materials were also conducted. Results suggest that HPPM exhibits excellent properties and can be a good material for protecting SBDP.