Bond strength between sealed bridge decks and concrete overlays

The bond strength between overlays and bridge decks that are sealed with ep oxy resin or high molecular-weight methacrylate is evaluated through field and laboratory tests. Microsilica-modified concrete, latex-modified concret e, anti super-dense plasticized concrete overlays are included in this stud y. Despite often stark variations in the values of bond strength obtained f rom different testing methods, the data universally suggest that the use of a sealer at the interface reduces the available bond strength by, more tha n 50%. Extra surface preparation techniques, such as light sandblasting of the sealed surface or broadcasting, sand over the sealed interface while th e sealer is curing, are effective and simple methods for restoring a signif icant portion of the bond strength.