Identifier

etd-12192013-153010

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Engineering Science (Interdepartmental Program)

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Biodeterioration on concrete surfaces of vertical elements of bridges represents a serious challenge to the highway infrastructure in Louisiana. This investigation aims to document the causes of biodeterioration of concrete surfaces and to document current conventional and state-of-the-art practices implemented to prevent and clean biofilm. A comprehensive literature review of previous research has been carried out in order to determine the cause and mechanisms of the biodeterioration as well as to identify current methods that state DOTs have implemented in order to maintain their bridges and allow them to function in optimal structural and performance conditions. A survey was developed and distributed among different states DOTs to determine current preventing and cleaning practices and their effectiveness. This review will serve as a baseline for future research projects on this topic as identified by the results of the synthesis. Results suggest that the main cause of biodeterioration of concrete surfaces is caused by micro-organisms’ activity present at the surface. Furthermore, current practices used to prevent and clean biofilms growth are pressure washing, cleaning with biocides, and addition of photocatalytic nano titanium dioxide (TiO2) in the concrete mix. From prevention and cleaning perspective, the use of photocatalytic nano TiO2 in the concrete mix appears to be the most promising method in preventing microbial growth. However, further validation of this treatment is needed.

Date

2013

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Secure the entire work for patent and/or proprietary purposes for a period of one year. Student has submitted appropriate documentation which states: During this period the copyright owner also agrees not to exercise her/his ownership rights, including public use in works, without prior authorization from LSU. At the end of the one year period, either we or LSU may request an automatic extension for one additional year. At the end of the one year secure period (or its extension, if such is requested), the work will be released for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Hassan, Marwa

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.2757

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