A review of the ``trigger'' to reseal contraction joints in plain concrete pavements

Abstract

This paper provides a critical review of the ‘trigger’ to reseal transverse contraction joints in plain concrete pavements given that sealant distress is not uniform along the joint length, traffic management costs are a significant cost, minimising traffic disruption at high volume sites is important, and maintenance funding being limited and directed to ‘safety first’ maintenance activities. In NSW, Australia, all contraction joints are sealed with a highway grade silicone sealant. When sealed with the reservoir clean and dry, the joint sealant should remain in place without cracking for at least 15 years. However, joints sealed incorrectly typically result in early age adhesion failure. Poor joint cleanliness or sealing too early, has been shown to result in seal distress under the wheel paths within the first 2 years. It is also common for the sealant to become distressed in the slow (outer) lane while the sealant is in satisfactory condition in the fast (inner) lane. Recommendations for an interim empirical procedure are provided to assist asset managers evaluate the ‘triggers’ for resealing existing joints. The recommendations are based on the age of the pavement and incorporate: (a) Simplified definition for sealant defect, (b) Implementation of a random inspection technique to determine the extent of seal distress and more informed decision making on contraction joints to be resealed, and (c) The extent of resealing in a transverse joint over multiple lanes.