Abstract
In 1986-1987, New Jersey DOT applied forty-seven (47) different coating systems to various individual spans of the Mathis Bridge. The eastbound Mathis Bridge carries Route 37 over the Barnegat Bay from Toms River to Seaside Heights, New Jersey. Each experimental system was applied to a complete span comprising approximately 4,000 square feet of steel. Experimental coating systems included metallizing, various zinc-based systems, various levels of surface preparation, and several overcoating strategies (e.g., alkyd over a hand-tool cleaned surface).
This paper will present the results of an inspection conducted in 2007, nominally 20 years after the initial coating application. The inspection showed varied service lives associated with the different coating systems. Some of the systems were in excellent condition after 20 years while others had completely broken down. In addition to the present condition of the test spans, the paper will review the historical performance of the various coating systems as well as the applied cost. Finally, several important implications for maintenance planners will be presented. These will include cost-benefit calculations and risk-reduction strategies.
