Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Overlay for Bridge Seam Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sealing seams between bridge segments and repairing road surfaces are inefficient, prone to leakage, and costly, with epoxy-filled grooves often failing and requiring frequent repairs, while traditional road repair methods are temporary and stress-sensitive.
Innovation Solution
Applying an epoxy adhesive on both sides of the seam with a fibrous material spanning the groove, and using a woven member embedded in an adhesive layer with aggregate to create a durable and water-resistant overlay system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If epoxy is applied to fill grooves in bridge seams, then water sealing is improved, but leakage failure still occurs and reliability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining epoxy adhesive with fibrous reinforcement materials (such as wire mesh, fiberglass, or other fabric-like materials) to create a hybrid sealing system. This composite structure provides both the adhesive bonding properties of epoxy and the structural reinforcement of the fibrous material, preventing leakage failure while maintaining a relatively simple application process that involves coating the adhesive and embedding the fibrous reinforcement within the groove.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional road surface repair methods (patching, replacement) are used, then immediate repair is achieved, but the repairs are temporary and require frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating fibrous reinforcement materials into the epoxy adhesive before application, creating a pre-strengthened repair system. This preliminary reinforcement of the repair material itself ensures long-term durability and reduces the frequency of subsequent repairs, thereby improving the duration of action without requiring more complex or time-consuming repair processes.
3Strength
If overlay systems are applied to distressed road surfaces, then surface restoration is achieved, but movement in the underlying surface causes stress and physical tearing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the mechanical properties of the overlay system through the incorporation of fibrous reinforcement materials. This changes the stress distribution characteristics and flexibility parameters of the overlay, allowing it to accommodate movements in the underlying surface without exceeding its tensile strength, thereby preventing physical tearing while maintaining surface restoration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method provides a cost-effective and durable seal that prevents water intrusion and reduces the need for frequent repairs, enhancing the structural integrity of bridge and road surfaces by using a fiber-reinforced, water-resistant cover.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive material that is applied to a portion or all of the road surface
Implementation Method 2
a fibrous material is applied to the surface so as to span over the seam for the length of the seam
Data Source
AI summary
A road surface overlay system including a road surface, an adhesive material that is applied to a portion or all of the road surface, a woven member including fiber bundles, wherein each of the fiber bundles are substantially embedded in the adhesive material and a layer of aggregate applied onto the woven member and the adhesive material. A method of forming a road surface overlay system is also provided.