At Flexcrete, we provide tried and tested solutions for the repair of a range of civil engineering structures, including bridges. In one of our latest projects, a complete Flexcrete concrete repair and protection system was used for the upgrade of Jubilee Bridge in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester on behalf of Tameside Metropolitan Council.
Jubilee Bridge was originally constructed in 1935 and was named to commemorate the silver jubilee of King George V. The reinforced concrete bridge spans the National Cycle Network Route 66 which runs from Hull to Manchester. As a result of carbonation and chloride attack, the structural integrity of the bridge needed to be reinstated as the steel reinforcement had corroded significantly and the concrete had spalled. An effective repair system was required for the concrete elements of the bridge to complement other strengthening work and ensure the refurbished structure had a design life of 120 years.
Proposed by contractors Dale Structural Repairs Limited and approved by Wilde Consulting Engineers, the chosen Flexcrete system comprised the application of Steel Reinforcement Protector 841 first. 841 forms a highly alkaline coating which protects steel from aggressive acid gases, moisture and chlorides, and passivates the steel surface chemically to prevent further rust formation. Monomix, a low density, high strength cementitious mortar, was then used for structural repairs and profiling of the surface. Monomix is exceptionally rapid hardening and facilitates easy high build trowel application.
For decorative, anti-carbonation protection, the whole surface was overcoated with Monodex Ultra, an advanced acrylic masonry coating which is waterproof and provides excellent resistance to weathering. Water-based, it releases no hazardous solvents or heavy odour during application and resists the growth of mould and fungi, ensuring an attractive appearance throughout its lifespan. Its elastomeric properties allow substrate and thermal movement without cracking or flaking of the coating. Monodex Ultra is available in a range of colours and light grey was chosen for this project.
Steel Reinforcement Protector 841, Monomix and Monodex Ultra are all CE marked in accordance with EN 1504, the pan-European concrete repair standard, and have an excellent international track record of use on this type of refurbishment work.