The Evaluation of High Molecular Weight Methacrylate as a Treatment Option for Shrinkage Cracks
Abstract
Air Force policy dictates that only epoxy can be used as a treatment option for shrinkage cracks in concrete airfield pavement. However, since epoxy is not ideal for shrinkage cracks, this research focuses on the evaluation of high molecular weight methacrylate (HMWM) as a treatment option. Laboratory experiments were performed on four sealants to determine whether they could penetrate a crack 24 inches deep, bond to the concrete, and resist water intrusion. Three HMWMs and one epoxy were assessed. The four sealers were applied to 32 concrete specimens with crack widths varying from 0.2 mm to 1 mm. Dyed waterways poured onto the surface and allowed to sit before the concrete specimens were re-broken, at which point the specimens were evaluated to determine where, if any, water penetrated the crack. Beam specimens were also tested in cold weather, with similar results. Evaluating the ability for the sealants to bond to the concrete and resist water intrusion was not accomplished because the sealants could not be contained in the specimens. Despite this, the laboratory results suggest that HMWM would be a viable option to treat shrinkage cracks in concrete airfield pavement, which is consistent with the literature.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1077138
Entities
People
- Austin R. Hayes
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology