Penetration of chloride from de-icing salt into concrete from a 30 year old bridge

The chloride profiles obtained from a reinforced concrete bridge exposed to de-icing salts for 30 years are studied. The bicycle lane of the bridge was coated with an epoxy coating, while the parapets (side walks) were left uncoated. The protective effect of the coating was practically lost after about 15 years of service. The presence of the damaged coating has caused the concrete to remain relatively wet, so allowing quick chloride transport. The non-coated parapets have not shown quick chloride penetration despite significant chloride loads. The protective effects of coatings in these type of structures should be reconsidered. To improve the protective effect, hydrophobic treatment of the concrete should be performed before applying this coatings.