Extending the Life, Serviceability and Durability of the Sylvania Waters Concrete Bridges

Infracorr Consulting was commissioned to investigate six small bridge structures in the Sylvania water precedent for the Sutherland Shire Council in Sydney. The reinforced concrete bridges were all constructed around circa 1968 and were suffering significant chloride induced cracking, spalling and delamination.

This paper details the initial investigation and testing methods adopted to determine the cause and extent of deterioration and include details of repair options considered for the required 30 year life extension, which included patch repairs, Cathodic Protection and Hybrid CP. The design of the repair systems which was based on the Hybrid CP system is explained in relation to the major advantages of this form of rehabilitation over other options.

This paper also outlines the successful remediation of the structure and includes some key challenges during the remedial operation in regard to access and tidal influences.