As thin pavements with synthetic binder (with a lifetime of 10-15 years) have been used in Denmark for over 20 years, a study by the Danish Road Directorate (DRD) into the durability of this type of pavement is reported. In recent years pavements based on polyurethane modified epoxy are now being used rather than tar-epoxy binders. For both types of pavement the general thickness is said to be 5-10 mm depending on traffic loads. In the study 36 pavements with synthetic binder were evaluated, on both concrete and steel bridges, with ages ranging from 1-17 years and an ADT from 200 to 46,000 vehicles. The inspection showed that the pavements are in relatively good condition and that thin pavements with synthetic binder can provide a satisfactory alternative to bitumen-based waterproofing bridge pavements. The study also indicated various types of surface damage observed, which are also discussed.
Abstract