This report describes the application of an experimental
metal sealer to bridge beams which are coated with lead-based
paint.
Regulations developed by the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) , prohibit the introduction of material containing lead into
the environment. Containment and disposal methods required for
sandblasting lead-based paints have proven to be costly. The
Oklahoma Department of Transportation is searching for an
economic alternative to sandblasting steel.
Two bridges in western Oklahoma were treated with the
experimental metal sealer in 1962. A visual survey was conducted
on these bridges to evaluate the performance of the sealer.
However, the formulation of the sealer applied to these bridges
is unknown.
The experimental sealer required that only dirt, grease, and
hard scale be removed prior to application. The sealer was thin
and had a tendency to run, even when applied at the
manufacturer's suggested rate. The cost of the sealer
application was less than removal and containment methods
previously used.Construction ReportN
