Waterproofing Membranes: a Vital Component of the Bridge of the Future

Abstract The Federal Highway Administration has a top level technology goal targeted toward the development and deployment of the “Bridge of the Future.” This is a conceptual short span bridge that demonstrates significant improvements over the current state of the practice – particularly with regard to ease and speed of construction and long term durability. Initial studies under this initiative have identified durability of bridge decks and other superstructure elements adjacent to leaking joints as a critical item affecting the durability of a great number of bridges in the national inventory. Bridge deck waterproofing technology has taken significant steps forward in recent years and is seen as a major contributor to the solution of this problem going forward. The subject paper will outline the magnitude of the bridge deck deterioration issue; demonstrate the gains in technology that provide potential solutions from a thick film coating perspective; document the outstanding performance history of these thick film deck waterproofing abroad – particularly in Europe; and update the progress of demonstration, research, and initial implementation efforts in the US in which FHWA has participated.