United States Department of Transportation
i
Investigation of best practices for maintenance of concrete bridge railings : [tech summary].
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2015-01-01
[PDF-127.74 KB]
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Abstract:The development of biofi lms on concrete structures has a negative impact on aesthetics as well as on the performance and integrity
of concrete structures. Biofi lms develop and grow easily when the right conditions are present, such as high relative humidity (60 to
100%) and temperature (70 to 95°F). These conditions are encountered in the hot-humid climatic region, which includes the state of
Louisiana. As a consequence, visible stains and a relatively fast deterioration of bridges, roads, highways, and other structures are
encountered in the state of Louisiana. This issue has triggered public complaints which, as a result, have raised the need to fi nd a
practical and economic solution to be used by the Department.
To address this problem, this study conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify the causes and types of biofi lm
deterioration and surveyed state agencies on currently used methods to prevent and eliminate biofi lm development on concrete
surfaces. It also identifi ed other DOTs facing similar problems and the methods they use to
prevent biofi lm growth. In addition, the report also surveyed private companies that clean
biofi lm growth on concrete surfaces across the US to identify innovative solutions to this issue. A
comparative analysis between the widely used cleaning methods was conducted and presented in
order to determine which method(s) should be evaluated for possible implementation in Louisiana.
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