Chapter 1. Introduction

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This volume of the report describes the investigation and evaluation of silica fume and latex-modified concrete overlays used in bridge deck rehabilitation projects. The overlays were installed as part of the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) Project C-206: Optimization of Highway Concrete Technology—Bridge Deck Overlays, which is detailed in the report issued at the conclusion of that study. Two types of concrete were tested in the overlays, silica fume concrete (SFC) and latex-modified Type III cement concrete (LMC-III). The two different overlay types were chosen for their ability to fill two different needs. The use of the SFC overlay was anticipated for use as a long-term low-permeability overlay, while use of the LMC-III was foreseen as a high early-strength concrete for use when traffic had to be restored after as little as 24 hours. This report summarizes the 5-year study to evaluate the long-term performance of the overlays.