This report includes an investigation on the current and past usage of prefabricated proprietary bridge deck joint-sealing systems (not exceeding 4 inches (102 mm) total movement) by highway agencies throughout the United States and a number of foreign countries. The good features in a wide variety of products are examined and reported shortcomings in their serviceability under traffic are searched out, notably their failure to be entirely watertight. The major contributory input to the collection of field experiences with such systems was the responses to a comprehensive questionnaire sent to all State highway departments and numerous toll authorities, which responses are contained in the report. Evaluations of all findings resulted in the preparation of a practical and detailed performance specification for rubber membrane- and cushion-seal systems up to 4 inches (102 mm) total movement. (Cellular compression seals are not included.) This specification includes extensive requirements for pre-installation and post-installation testing and places the responsibility on the contractor for installing systems having such attributes as watertightness, low noise, puncture resistance, endurance to temperature extremes, long service under traffic, etc. In-service guarantee clauses holding the contractor liable for joint failure for a few years were judged to be unenforcesable as a practical contractual obligation; nevertheless, suggested requirements and field tests are given for those highway agencies electing to include them. (Author/publisher)
Abstract