Title:
Getting Better Bond in Concrete Overlays
Author(s):
John A. Wells, Robert D. Stark, and Dimos Polyzois
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
21
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
49-52
Keywords:
bond strength; concrete overlay; concrete repair; debonding; surface preparation
DOI:
Date:
3/1/1999
Abstract:
The continuing surge in structural restoration has generated considerable interest in methods and materials used to bond fresh, plastic concrete to hardened concrete. Resurfacing offices, warehouses, bridge decks, and parking structures with bonded concrete overlays is a well-recognized restoration option. In our practice, we have frequently investigated cracking and debonding in concrete overlays and have observed considerable disagreement between owners, engineers, and contractors on what constitutes acceptable surface preparation and/if necessary, what type of bonding agents to be used to enhance the bond between an overlay and the existing substrate.