– for bridge’s surface treatment
The Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), in collaboration with the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), has expedited a pilot project to determine whether used tyres when mixed with bitumen and used as a surface treatment for the deck plates of the bridge will increase skid resistance.
General Manager of the Bridge, Rawlston Adams, noted that IAST had approached the Bridge and indicated the availability of the technology to expedite such a project, and work on this started in the latter part of 2009.
He noted that the new deck plates promote smooth transport and as such persons may be inclined to travel at a fast rate. As a result, this measure will help to reduce accidents and improve the security of travellers.
Currently, IAST is in possession of 11 deck plates and is expected to return them to the bridge by mid-March for installation at critical points. Adams noted that it is not the quantity of deck plates that have the new surface treatment that matters but the placement of the plates.
He emphasised that the bridge will be monitoring the deck plates to determine if they are effective. If the pilot project is successful, all the new deck plates will benefit from this technology. The old deck plates that do not require replacement will remain with the asphalt treatment that was applied previously.
Adams emphasised that this collaborative project will not only see safe commute of passengers, but also a cleaner environment. He noted that it will help to decrease the build-up of old tyres in the dumpsite and other areas. (GINA)