Did you know that asphalt protects bridges?⁠ ⁠

Did you know that asphalt protects bridges?⁠ ⁠

In Europe, most (if not all) steel and concrete bridges have asphalt surfacing on top.⁠ ⁠ One of the main reasons for using asphalt on these bridges is to protect the steel and concrete structures from water and de-icing salts.⁠ ⁠

There are many requirements for surface layers on bridge decks. ⁠
They need to have:⁠

  • good skid resistance, ⁠
  • a flat surface, ⁠
  • low sound levels, ⁠
  • sufficient resistance against deterioration, ⁠
  • resistance against oil, ⁠
  • water and minerals, ⁠
  • less susceptibility to weather conditions, ⁠
  • providing a waterproofing layer, ⁠
  • high stability, resistance against fatigue, ⁠
  • resistant to permanent deformation, ⁠
  • and the ability to spread the loads for a safe and comfortable drive. ⁠