RESURFACING SEVERN CROSSING: DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHOSEN SYSTEM

The choice of resurfacing for the Severn Crossing was dictated by strict weight restrictions, the need to achieve composite action with the orthotropic steel deck and to provide good fatigue characteristics. Research and development was undertaken on candidate systems which were also used in pre-contract trials to check that the required objectives could be achieved. Many of the advantages of new materials depend on good quality control and careful monitoring. Methods and procedures in testing and control have been developed and are described briefly. These include: a) stiffness tests; b) fatigue tests; c) shear tests; and d) peel tests, whose aim is to study the adhesion between the various levels of the surfacing, waterproofing and the steel substrates under conditions clearage or peeling action. Details of the results of site trials are presented. Details are also provided of the administration of the contract works and the tenders. The work was carried out from 1989 to 1991 whilst traffic requirements on the Crossing were maintained. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference see IRRD 858602.