Bridge Deck

PROJECT:  Bridge Deck

SIZE:  2900 sq.ft.

STAKEHOLDER REALTY:  DOT experiencing chronic problems with Bridge Decks throughout the state.  The concrete decks had major spalling issues due to the generous use of de-icing salts allowing water to penetrate the concrete and subjected to multiple freeze-thaw cycles.  Like most other DOT’s their solution had been Epoxy – broadcast systems which they were not happy with the results; constant raveling of aggregate (Friction). NMDOT was seeking a new solution to this problem to compare with the Epoxy System. 

THE SOLUTION:  NMDOT became aware of NGSS’ CEM-SHEILD and the Friction numbers it could produce as a slurry.  The department also was intrigued about making the surface black.  This has been proven to help melt ice and snow during the states prolonged freeze-thaw cycle season.  They were anxious to try it to compare the results against the 2- Step Epoxy broadcast Systems and quickly selected a test site.  As always, the Bridge deck was properly prepared and two layers of NGSS’s CEM-SHIELD, Bridge Deck/Black was applied.  A heavy broom finish was applied for maximum friction.  Job was completed in 6 hours and opened within hours.

RESULTS: 7 years later, NGSS’s CEM-SHIELD had no signs of wear and was still a deep Black color.  NMDOT has a very favorable opinion of the NGSS “Slurry” solution because there is no aggregate /friction loss as with the Epoxy Systems. (3-5 years life span) There also was a significant cost savings on the installation price. The Black color proved to help melt snow and ice quicker and is the preferred color for the future maintenance.