Title

Conductive-Concrete Overlays - An Innovative Solution for Bridge Deck Deicing

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-2002

Publication Title

Concrete International

Volume

24

Issue

2

First Page

56

Last Page

60

Abstract

Bridge decks are prone to ice accumulation, making winter travel treacherous. Road salts and some other deicing chemicals are cost effective, but may cause surface scaling, reinforcing-steel corrosion, or both. Another alternative is a thin, conductive-concrete overlay that, when connected to a power source, can generate enough heat through electrical resistance to prevent ice formation on the deck or melt ice after it forms. Using a conductive concrete overlay provides an environment-friendly deicing method that would prolong bridge service life by significantly reducing the use of road salt and deicing chemicals. When used on pedestrian bridges, sidewalks, and driveways, it would also reduce the risk of personal injuries due to slip-and-fall accidents.

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