Abstract
PURPOSES: The purpose of this study is to evaluate physical properties, durability, fatigue resistance, and long-term performance of poly-urethane concrete (PU) which can be possible application of thin layer on long-span orthotropic steel bridge and to check structural stability of bridge structure. METHODS : Various tests of physical properties, such as flexural strength, tensile strength, bond strength and coefficient of thermal expansion tests were conducted for physical property evaluation using two types of poly urethane concrete which have different curing time. Freezing and thawing test, accelerated weathering test and chloride ion penetration test were performed to evaluate the effect of exposed to marine environment. Beam fatigue test and small scale accelerated pavement test were performed to assess the resistance of PU against fatigue damage and long-term performance. Structural analysis were conducted to figure out structural stability of bridge structure and thin bridge deck pavement system. RESULTS: The property tests results showed that similar results were observed overall however the flexural strength of PUa was higher than those of PUb. It was also found that PU materials showed durability at marine environment. Beam fatigue test results showed that the resistances of the PUa against fatigue damage were two times higher than those of the PUb. It was found form small scale accelerated pavement test to evaluate long-term performance that there is no distress observed after 800,000 load applications. Structural analysis to figure out structural stability of bridge structure and thin bridge deck pavement system indicated that bridge structures were needed to increase thickness of steel deck plate or to improve longitudinal rib shape. CONCLUSIONS: It has been known that the use of PU can be positively considered to thin layer on long-span orthotropic steel bridge in terms of properties considered marine environment, resistance of fatigue damage and long-term performance.
