The approval test methods of surface structure materials for bridge decks

In the bridge works of the Finnish National Road Administration (FinnRA), the surface structure materials are required to satisfy certain specified quality standards before they are approved for use. Because of the large number of these materials as well as rapid progress in their development, the testing of these materials is a continuous activity. The approval tests are mostly adaptations of international standard test methods for these materials, the main difference being the lower test temperatures which are used because of Finland's cold climate. For this reason the tests carried out in other countries are generally not sufficient to qualify a product for approval in Finland. The Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) carries out the required tests when ordered by the producer or agent for a product. FinnRA decides on the approval of a product on the basis of the test results. The test methods and the procedure for ordering the tests are presented in this Research Note, which is designed to serve as preliminary information for those intending to order such tests. Twenty one (21) test methods for waterproofing sheet and liquid membrane systems, thin layer surfacings and joint sealant compounds are described in the Research Note. The methods may change with continuous product and method development, and the Research Note will be up dated accordingly as and when necessary.