Potential Deicer Effects on Concrete Bridge Decks: Developing Exposure Maps

The use of ice control chemicals has become a crucial tool in providing a reasonable level of service on wintery roadways. Yet, there is little research on how the durability of concrete decks in cold climate might be affected by their exposure to deicers. This work presents a streamlined method of developing exposure maps that can be used to better understand the potential effects that deicer usage and other relevant variables may have on an agency's concrete infrastructure. Using the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) as a case study, this work started with a survey of two relevant stakeholder groups, followed by the collection of relevant data for developing exposure maps for 12 selected representative ODOT concrete bridge decks. Some issues with data availability and quality were identified. It is recommended that deicer type and application rates, traffic volume, climatic conditions, and concrete mix design and rehabilitation data should be documented into an integrated deck preservation program, or be added to the existing bridge management systems. The inventory of such data would ultimately enable the agency to examine the role of various factors in the premature deterioration of its concrete bridge decks.