EXPERIENCES WITH SKID-RESISTANT EPOXY ASPHALT SURFACES ON CALIFORNIA TOLL BRIDGES

Epoxy asphalt surfaces have been placed on 3 bridges to solve very special surfacing problems unique to each bridge. The surfaces fall into 3 general categories: pavements thicker than 1.5 in (3.8 cm) applied to orthotropic steel plate decks, that are structurally sound but have deteriorated as a riding surface, and chip seals 0.25 in. (0.6 cm) or less in thickness also applied to old concrete decks that are structurally sound but need sealing and improved skid resistance. In addition to high skid resistance, each case has one other controlling factor. For the first case, the factor is flexure fatigue controls; hence, a pavement resistant to fatigue is required. For the latter 2 cases, the factor is superimposed weight on the existing bridge controls; hence, thin but durable surfaces are required. In all 3 cases, epoxy asphalt provided a thoroughly satisfactory solution.