Evaluation and Minimization of Bruising (Microcracking) in Concrete Repair (364. 7T)

Presented By: Michael Sprinkel, Virginia Transportation Research Council
Bruising (microcracking) is commonly induced in a concrete substrate during the concrete removal or surface preparation process and is detrimental to the bond between the repair material and the substrate. One may ask: “what is bruising”, as this term is not commonly encountered in construction. Nevertheless, preventing or minimizing bruising and its effect on bond is an important requirement for a successful repair. This session explains what “bruising” is and focuses on concrete removal techniques and how they damage surfaces, adversely affecting the bond to repair materials, shortening the life of a repair. Procedures are presented to avoid and overcome bruising to a prepared surface.