Comparison of Corrosion Protection Systems for Steel Bridges

Abstract Steel bridges are an important part of the world's infrastructure. Improved circularity and reduced waste at the end-of-life stage are attractive for the owner that values sustainability. Steel bridges must be protected against corrosion to realize these benefits. Current techniques include weathering steel, stainless steel, single coat paint, multi-coat paint, hot-dipped galvanizing, thermal spray metallizing and combinations thereof. This paper will characterize these techniques considering cost, accelerated bridge construction, embodied carbon, and long-life performance against corrosion. Results of laboratory corrosion testing of several systems will be reviewed. A discussion of the cost and schedule impact of protection systems that offer Class B slip ratings will be presented. Finally, a thorough analysis of the impact of material selection on sustainability will be offered.