DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

VOLUME 2

SECTION 3

HIGHWAY STRUCTURES:
DESIGN (SUB
STRUCTURES AND
SPECIAL STRUCTURES),
MATERIALS
MATERIALS AND
COMPONENTS

PART 4
BD 47/99
WATERPROOFING AND SURFACING OF
CONCRETE BRIDGE DECKS
SUMMARY
This Standard gives the requirements for the design
materials and workmanship for the waterproofing and
surfacing of the concrete decks of highway bridges and
is to be read in conjunction with the Specification for
Highway Works. It supersedes BD 47/94.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
1.

Remove BD 47/94 from Volume 2, Section 3,

Part 4 of the DMRB, which is superseded by
BD 47/99, and archive as appropriate.

2.

Insert BD 47/99 into Volume 2, Sections 3,

Part 4.

3.

Archive this sheet at appropriate.

Note: A quarterly index with a full set of Volume

Contents Pages is available separately from The
Stationery Office Ltd.

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DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

BD 47/99

THE HIGHWAYS AGENCY

THE SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT
THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY FOR WALES
CYNULLIAD CENEDLAETHOL CYMRU
DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT FOR
NORTHERN IRELAND

Waterproofing and Surfacing

of Concrete Bridge Decks

Summary:

This Standard gives the requirements for the design materials and
workmanship for the waterproofing and surfacing of the concrete decks of
highway bridges and is to be read in conjunction with the Specification for
Highway Works. It supersedes BD 47/94.

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Volume 2 Section 3
Part 4 BD 47/99

Registration of Amendments

REGISTRATION OF AMENDMENTS

Amend
No

August 1999

Page No

Signature & Date of

incorporation of
amendments

Amend
No

Page No

Signature & Date of

incorporation of
amendments

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Registration of Amendments

REGISTRATION OF AMENDMENTS

Amend
No

Page No

Signature & Date of

incorporation of
amendments

Amend
No

Page No

Signature & Date of

incorporation of
amendments

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DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

VOLUME 2

HIGHWAY STRUCTURES:
DESIGN (SUB
STRUCTURES AND
SPECIAL STRUCTURES),
MATERIALS
MATERIALS AND
COMPONENTS

SECTION 3

PART 4
BD 47/99
WATERPROOFING AND SURFACING OF
CONCRETE BRIDGE DECKS
Contents
Chapter
1.

Introduction

2.

Scope

3.

Definitions

4.

Drainage

5.

Detailing of Deck Waterproofing

6.

Concrete Deck Construction

7.

Waterproofing Systems

8.

Installation and Workmanship

9.

Protection of Waterproofing

10.

Surfacing on Carriageways

11.

Surfacing on Footways Central Reserves and

Verges

12.

References

13.

Enquiries

Appendix A:

Appendix B:

Appendix C:

August 1999

Procedures to Enable the Use of

Waterproofing Systems in Highway
Contracts
Certification Test Requirements for
Waterproofing Systems on Concrete
Bridge Decks
Procedures and Requirements for
Certification Site Trials for Permitted
Waterproofing Systems

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Volume 2 Section 3
Part 4 BD 47/99

Chapter 1
Introduction

1. INTRODUCTION
General
1.1
The decks of highway bridges are protected to
prevent surface water from coming into contact with the
structure. This is achieved by the provision of adequate
drainage and by waterproofing the upper surface of the
deck. Such waterproofing has to be sufficiently robust to
resist transient vehicular loading, maintain good
adhesion to the deck and the surfacing, be resistant to
de-icing salts and possess long term durability.
1.2
Bituminous road surfacing materials are not
sufficiently waterproof to protect bridge decks.
Satisfactory waterproofing is achieved by applying a
membrane on to the structural deck.
1.3
This Standard updates BD 47/94 (DMRB 2.3.4)
which superseded BE 27 (DMRB 2.3) which is now
cancelled. It should be read in conjunction with BA 47
(DMRB 2.3.5) and the Specification for Highway
Works (MCHW 1).
1.4
Except where a standard specified in this
document implements or is technically equivalent to a
Harmonised European Standard or to a European
Standard adopted for use within the European Economic
Area after 31 December 1985, any requirements for
products or materials to comply with the specified
standard shall be satisfied by compliance with
i)

or

or

or

ii)

iii)

iv)

a relevant standard or code of practice of a

national standards institution or equivalent
body of any member state of the European
Economic Area
any relevant international standard
recognised in any member state of the
European Economic Area
a relevant technical specification
acknowledged for use as a standard by a
public authority of any member state of the
European Economic Area
traditional procedures of manufacture of a
member state of the European Economic
Area where these are the subject of a
written technical description sufficiently
detailed to permit assessment of the goods
or materials for the use specified

provided that the proposed standard, code of practice,

technical specification or technical description provides

August 1999

in use levels of safety, suitability and fitness for purpose

equivalent to those required by the specified standard in
so far as they are not inconsistent with the Essential
Requirements of the Construction Products Directive
(89/106/EEC).
1.5
Where reference is made to the British Board of
Agrment (BBA) the equivalent assessment body in any
member state of the European Economic Area will also
be acceptable.
1.6
Where tests are carried out in other Member
States these requirements shall be satisfied if the Test
House is accredited in a member state of the European
Economic Area in accordance with the relevant part of
the EN 45000 series of standards for the tests carried
out.
Certification and Registration Requirements
1.7
Waterproofing systems are required to have a
BBA Roads and Bridges Agrment Certificate before
they may be installed on concrete bridge decks
constructed, improved, or maintained in compliance with
the Specification for Highway Works (MCHW 1).
Requirements are given in Appendices A, B, and C. In
addition, waterproofing systems are required to be
registered with the Overseeing Organisation.
Departmental Registration is administered by the
Highways Agency on behalf of all the Overseeing
Organisations.
1.8
This Standard contains new Certification test
requirements. New certificates will be required from
1 June 1998.
1.9
Waterproofing systems that have been granted
Departmental Registration are listed in SA1 (MCHW
0.3.1). The details in the Advice Note are updated by the
Overseeing Organisations on a regular basis.
Implementation
1.10 This Standard should be used forthwith on all
schemes for the construction, improvement, and
maintenance of trunk roads, including motorways,
currently being prepared, provided that, in the opinion of
the Overseeing Organisation, this would not result in
significant additional expense or delay. Design
Organisations should confirm its application to
particular schemes with the Overseeing Organisation.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 2
Scope

2. SCOPE
General

Footbridges

2.1
This Standard specifies the requirements for
waterproofing and surfacing concrete bridge decks and
shall apply generally to new works and where
appropriate to the maintenance and repair of existing
works. It describes the design and registration
requirements for waterproofing systems for use on
concrete decks of highway bridges.

2.6
Requirements for the waterproofing and
surfacing of footbridges are not included in this
Standard and the treatment of such structures shall be
considered individually for each case using the most
appropriate techniques available at the time and agreed
with the TAA.

2.2
The types of bridge decks covered by this
Standard are described but the waterproofing of other
parts of bridge structures (eg below ground surfaces,
piers and abutments and other salt spray susceptible
areas) are not included.

Corrugated Steel Buried Structures

2.7
Requirements for the waterproofing of corrugated
steel buried structures are given in BD 12 (DMRB 2.2).
Aqueducts

2.3
For the purpose of this Standard, concrete
bridges are deemed to include accommodation bridges
together with tunnels, box type underpasses, culverts
and cattle creeps etc except when such structures are
constructed by thrust boring or tunnel techniques where
the external faces are inaccessible for the application of
waterproofing. In such cases reference should be made
to the appropriate Overseeing Organisation.

2.8
The waterproofing of aqueducts is not within the
scope of this Standard, and the treatment of such
structures shall be considered individually for each case
using the most appropriate techniques available at the
time and agreed with the TAA, except where the top of
the aqueduct is over-slabbed and carries a highway, in
which case the top slab is considered as a bridge deck.

In the case of tunnels and box type underpasses where

the bottom slab carries traffic and also where a ground
slab is used in a traffic underpass, the slab carrying
traffic shall be waterproofed and surfaced as a bridge
deck.
2.4
The requirements for waterproofing the top slabs
of concrete buried structures are included. For concrete
pipes or curved arch sections reference should be made
to Clauses 2004 and 2006 of the Specification
(MCHW 1).
Steel Decks
2.5
Requirements for the waterproofing and
surfacing of steel decks are not included in this Standard
and the treatment of such decks shall be considered
individually for each case using the most appropriate
techniques available at the time and agreed with the
Technical Approval Authority (TAA).

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 3
Definitions

3. DEFINITIONS
Waterproofing system
3.1
A material or combination of materials which
form an impervious membrane, including where
appropriate a protective layer, for ordered application to
a bridge deck to protect it from the ingress of water and
de-icing salts.
Permitted Waterproofing System (PWS)
3.2
A waterproofing system (proprietary or nonproprietary) which is in accordance with the
requirements and conditions of this Standard.
Protective layer
3.3
Material forming part of a Permitted
Waterproofing System laid on the waterproofing
membrane to protect it from damage during
construction.
Additional Protective Layer (APL)
3.4
Bituminous material complying with Clause
2003.4 of the Specification (MCHW 1) laid on specified
areas of the complete waterproofing system to protect it
from damage during construction, surfacing and
resurfacing operations.
Surfacing
3.5
Road, footway, central reserve and verge wearing
course or combination of wearing course and base
course.
Sub-surface drainage
3.6
A system for draining water from within the
surfacing.
Specification
3.7

Specification for Highway Works (MCHW 1).

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 4
Drainage

4. DRAINAGE
Surface Water Drainage
4.1
Surface water shall be removed from the bridge
deck by the provision of falls and suitable drainage
outlets, continuous drainage channels etc. Advice on
surface water drainage is given in BA 47 (DMRB
2.3.5).

and resistant to all commonly occurring chemical

spillages. Drainage systems shall not contain details
which are integral with structural elements. Drainage
waters from bridge decks shall not be exhausted into the
drainage layers behind abutments.

Sub-surface Drainage
4.2
Bituminous surfacing is porous and can retain
surface water. Where the geometry of the deck or deck
movement joints prevents this water from draining
naturally through surface drainage, sub-surface drains
shall be provided. Advice on sub-surface water drainage
is given in BA 47 (DMRB 2.3.5).
Drainage of Service Bays and Ducts
4.3
All service bays shall have provision for
drainage. Wherever possible service bays shall be left
unfilled. If a statutory undertaker requires a filling to be
used it shall be a free draining material as described in
paragraph 4.4. Where surface or sub-surface water
flows towards a bridge from the approaches suitable
upstands and drainage outlets shall be provided to
prevent water entering the service bays and leaking into
expansion joints.
Make-up Materials for Footways, Central Reserves
and Verges
4.4
Wherever possible make-up material of either nofines concrete or other free draining materials or
concrete shall be used over the waterproofing. Where
loose filling is required it should be a material such as
10mm nominal single size aggregate rather than sand.
Sub-surface drainage shall be provided.
Drainage Systems
4.5
Systems for the drainage of water from bridges
shall be so detailed that water is not allowed to fall
freely from the bridge deck. Closed drainage systems
shall be provided, and these systems shall be fully
provided with facilities for rodding and other necessary
maintenance. It is essential that drainage systems are
sufficiently robust to withstand damage during cleaning,

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 5
Detailing of Deck Waterproofing

5. DETAILING OF DECK WATERPROOFING

5.1
The waterproofing shall be continuous and cover
the entire deck between parapet upstands including
footways, central reserves, verges, service bays and
under kerbs (see Detail 1). On bridges with separate
superstructures each deck shall be waterproofed
independently. Particular attention is to be paid to
sealing the waterproofing membrane at its edges and
around interruptions such as gulleys.

level 200mm below the soffit of the top slab. On top

slabs of buried structures protection to the waterproofing
system shall be either a bituminous APL or concrete to
Clause 2602 of the Specification (MCHW 1) and ST1
mix.

5.2
Sharp arrises and internal angles should be
avoided in the deck surface to be waterproofed. Arrises
should be chamfered or rounded and fillets formed in
internal angles. Chases into which sheet waterproofing
membranes are tucked should have the lower face
splayed (see Detail 1).
Deck Movement Joints
5.3
At all movement joints in the deck the
waterproofing shall be detailed in such a way to prevent
water percolating beneath the waterproofing membrane.
5.4
At sealed joints, it is essential that the
waterproofing membrane, the relevant parts of the joint
and any sealing material form a continuous impervious
barrier. Impervious materials, eg epoxy resin mortar, are
to be bonded directly to the deck.
5.5
The detailing of waterproofing at deck movement
joints including buried joints is given in BD 33 (DMRB
2.3.6).
Service Bays
5.6
All service bays shall be waterproofed on sides
and floor and the system shall generally be the same as
for the deck. Waterproofing on the floor of service bays
shall always be protected (see paragraph 9.5). For
service bay drainage see paragraph 4.3.
Top Slabs of Buried Structures
5.7
Where the structure is covered with fill such as in
the case of underpasses, culverts and cattle creeps etc
the top slab shall be waterproofed with a Permitted
Waterproofing System. Where the top slab is continuous
with the abutments waterproofing on the top surface
shall be continued down the outside of the abutment to a

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Chapter 5
Detailing of Deck Waterproofing

Volume 2 Section 3
Part 4 BD 47/99

Details of chases

TYPICAL DETAILS OF WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS

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Volume 2 Section 3
Part 4 BD 47/99

Chapter 6
Concrete Deck Construction

6. CONCRETE DECK CONSTRUCTION

Surface Finish
6.1
The required surface finish to new bridge decks
between parapet upstands and to top slabs of buried
structures is Class U4 in accordance with Clause 1708.4
of the Specification (MCHW 1).

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 7
Waterproofing Systems

7. WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS
7.1
Procedures to enable the use of waterproofing
systems in highway contracts are given in Appendix A
of this Standard. Requirements, tests and checks for
Permitted Waterproofing Systems are given in Appendix
B of this Standard, and requirements for Certification
site trials are given in Appendix C.
7.2
The use of a Permitted Waterproofing System on
concrete bridge decks and buried top slabs does not
prejudice the need to ensure adhesion compatibility with
the concrete and the surfacing.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 8
Installation and Workmanship

8. INSTALLATION AND WORKMANSHIP

General
8.1
The installation of the waterproofing system shall
be in accordance with the Specification (MCHW 1) and
the requirements specified in the BBA Roads and
Bridges Agrment Certificate for the particular system.
8.2
Uniform adhesion is essential at all interfaces ie
concrete/primer/waterproofing membrane/tack coat/
additional protective layer/surfacing in order to ensure
durability of the concrete deck, waterproofing system
and the surfacing. Minimum values for adhesion are
given in Appendix B.
8.3
The use of ventilating layers, partial bonding or
bond breakers with the waterproofing system shall not
be permitted.
8.4
All waterproofing systems shall be terminated in
a chase. Where a prefabricated membrane is terminated
in a chase, the rebate shall be filled with a compatible
sealant (see Chapter 5, Detail 1). Where a liquid applied
membrane is terminated in a chase, the membrane shall
be taken into the chase, but a sealant is not required.
Blisters and Pin/Blow holes
8.5
It is essential that all defects in waterproofing
systems such as blisters and pin/blow holes are made
good before any subsequent layers/coats are applied.
8.6
Details for making good of defects are included
in the BBA Roads and Bridges Agrment Certificate and
the method statement for the particular waterproofing
system.

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Chapter 9
Protection of Waterproofing

9. PROTECTION OF WATERPROOFING
9.1
The protection of bridge deck waterproofing
during construction shall be in accordance with Clause
2002 of the Specification (MCHW 1).
9.2
Protective layers forming part of a waterproofing
system shall be incorporated over the whole of the deck
area to be waterproofed.
9.3
The APL 20mm nominal thickness shall be laid
on all waterproofed bridge deck areas to protect the
waterproofing during subsequent construction
operations. Waterproofed vertical faces eg upstands and
the sides of service bays do not require an APL, and for
the floor of service bays alternative materials may be
used.
9.4
In specific instances (either maintenance or new
works) where there are limitations on the total thickness
of the asphaltic material above the waterproofing
system, the requirement for the APL may be relaxed and
the Overseeing Organisation shall be consulted for
advice on the choice of suitable waterproofing systems
and application made to the TAA for a departure from
Standards to cover this non-standard aspect. In such
cases, waterproofing systems meeting the requirements
of the Aggregate Indentation Test at 125C (paragraph
B4.2.(i)) shall be considered suitable.
Service Bays
9.5
Waterproofing on the floor of service bays shall
receive additional protection with one of the following:
i)

20mm of sand asphalt protection.

ii)

50mm thick screed of concrete to Clause 2602 of

the Specification (MCHW 1) and ST1 mix.

iii)

Approved tiles hand set in bitumen.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 10
Surfacing on Carriageways

10. SURFACING ON CARRIAGEWAYS

10.1 Except for accommodation bridges, on both
flexible and rigid pavement roads the bridge decks shall
be surfaced with bituminous materials complying with
Series 900, Road Pavements - Bituminous Bound
Materials, in the Specification (MCHW 1).
Accommodation bridges may be treated similarly or may
be surfaced with concrete.
10.2 For new works the designed total minimum
thickness of surfacing material shall generally be
100mm excluding the waterproofing system and APL.
For maintenance works the total minimum thickness may
be determined by existing circumstances.
Bridge Deck Expansion Joints
10.3 Special consideration shall be given to the detail
at deck expansion joints where the surfacing thickness
may be locally reduced by the design of the deck joint.
Bonding of APL or Surfacing to the Waterproofing
System
10.4 The APL or surfacing laid on the waterproofing
system shall be uniformly bonded to the system with a
compatible tack coat. Where a tack coat for the APL or
surfacing is not required as part of the waterproofing
system a uniform bond to the membrane shall be
obtained from the binder within the directly applied APL
or surfacing. Minimum bond values are given in
Appendix B.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 11
Surfacing on Footways, Central Reserves and Verges

11. SURFACING ON FOOTWAYS, CENTRAL

RESERVES AND VERGES
11.1 The surfaces of footways, central reserves and
verges shall be laid to falls so that surface water will be
shed into the drainage system.
11.2 Surfacing may be flexible, rigid or formed with
paving flags. Flexible surfacing shall be dense
bituminous surfacing complying with BS 4987 or mastic
asphalt complying with BS 1447.
11.3 Where any make up material is free draining a
dense surfacing shall be used. The surfacing may be
applied directly to a stable make up material such as
concrete or no-fines concrete. Where mastic asphalt
surfacing complying with BS 1447 is to be used on nofines concrete it shall first have been sealed with a sandcement slurry. In Scotland only air entrained structural
concrete complying with Clause 4.4 shall be used as
make up material.
11.4 Where the make up material is a loose filling a
suitable base course shall be used before the flexible
surfacing is applied.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 12
References

12. REFERENCES
1

Design Manual for Roads and Bridges

Statutes

Volume 2: Section 2: Special Structures

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

BD 12 Corrugated Steel Buried Structures

(DMRB 2.2.6)

Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland)

Order 1978.

Volume 2: Section 3: Materials and Components

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

Regulations 1989.

BD 33 Expansion Joints for Use in Highway

Bridge Decks (DMRB 2.3.6)
BA 47 Waterproofing and Surfacing of
Concrete Bridge Decks (DMRB 2.3.5)
2

Manual of Contract Documents for Highway

Works

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1990.
Factories Act 1961.
Factories Act (Northern Ireland) 1965.

Volume 0: Section 3: Advice Notes

SA1

Lists of Approved/Registered Products

(MCHW 0.3.1)

Volume 1: Specification for Highway Works

(MCHW 1)
Volume 2: Notes for Guidance on the
Specification for Highway Works (MCHW 2)
3

British Standards
BS 1447: 1988: Mastic asphalt (limestone fine
aggregate) for roads, footways and paving in
buildings.
BS 4987: 1988: Coated macadam for roads and
other paved areas.

Technical Memorandum (Bridges)

BE 27 - Waterproofing and Surfacing of Bridge
Decks.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Chapter 13
Enquiries

13. ENQUIRIES
All technical enquiries or comments on this Standard should be sent in writing as appropriate to:

Chief Highway Engineer

The Highways Agency
St Christopher House
Southwark Street
London SE1 0TE

J KERMAN
Chief Highway Engineer

Director, Road Network Management

and Maintenance Division
The Scottish Executive Development Department
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh EH6 6QQ

N B MACKENZIE
Director, Road Network Management
and Maintenance Division

The Director of Highways

The National Assembly for Wales
Cynulliad Cenedlaethol Cymru
Crown Buildings
Cathays Park
Cardiff CF1 3NQ

K J THOMAS
Director of Highways

Director of Engineering
Department of the Environment for
Northern Ireland
Roads Service Headquarters
Clarence Court
10-18 Adelaide Street
Belfast BT2 8GB

V CRAWFORD
Director of Engineering

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Appendix A

PROCEDURES TO ENABLE THE USE OF

WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS IN HIGHWAY
CONTRACTS
A1. A waterproofing system is permitted for use in
trunk road works provided that
(a)

It has a BBA Roads and Bridges Agrment

Certificate showing compliance with current HA
requirements (see Appendix B) and

(b)

The Permitted Waterproofing System (PWS) is

registered with the Overseeing Organisation and

(c)

The Overseeing Organisation has not suspended

use of the system.

A2. It is for the manufacturer or their representative

to obtain a BBA Roads and Bridges Agrment
Certificate for their particular system.
A3. To be awarded a BBA Roads and Bridges
Agrment Certificate the waterproofing system is
subjected to laboratory testing and checking for
compliance with HA requirements by BBA or a
BBA/HA approved Test Laboratory. The laboratory
results are assessed by BBA and if acceptable the
system is subjected to a site trial on an actual bridge
deck.
A4. Detailed requirements for the site trial are given
in Appendix C.
A5. When the assessment by BBA of both the
laboratory testing and checking and the site trial show
the system to be acceptable BBA award a Roads and
Bridges Agrment Certificate and the system is
permitted for use in trunk road works.
A6. If at some subsequent time the system shows
itself to be unsatisfactory by failing to maintain its
Certification requirements, the Overseeing Organisation
reserve the right to suspend or remove permission for the
system to be used in trunk road works notwithstanding
the validity of the BBA Roads and Bridges Agrment
Certificate.

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Appendix B

CERTIFICATION TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR

WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS ON CONCRETE
BRIDGE DECKS
B1.

INTRODUCTION

B1.1 This Appendix gives a series of test requirements

for the Certification of waterproofing systems for
concrete bridge decks. The Certification procedure has
been designed so that the manufacturer or their
representative has the option of withdrawing from the
test programme at various stages if the British Board of
Agrment (BBA) finds the system submitted fails to
comply with the requirements.
B1.2 The HA reserves the right to amend or
supplement the tests required for BBA Certification. The
costs of additional tests will be the responsibility of the
manufacturer or their representative.
B1.3 Certification shall be given only if the
waterproofing system successfully passes the complete
test programme and site trial. The HA reserves the right
to suspend or remove permission for the systems to be
used in highway works for the Overseeing
Organisations, and to withdraw Departmental
Registration for any system which fails to maintain the
test requirements in service.
B2.

PROCEDURE

The procedure for Certification is divided into the

following stages:

B2.1 Application for Assessment

Manufacturers requiring a waterproofing system to be
assessed shall submit the following basic details of their
waterproofing system to the BBA.
For All Systems:
System name
Description of Materials
Storage requirements
Installation Method Statement
Repair techniques
On site integrity testing by non-destructive testing
(NDT) method(s)
Expected Service Life
Health and Safety Data Sheets
Where Applicable:
Concrete surface preparation
Type of primer
Type of adhesive and application temperature
Number of layers/coats
Type of protection
Type of tack coat for bituminous overlay
Minimum activation temperature of system or tack coat
Other details
Additional information required for:

i)

Application for assessment

Sheet and Board Systems

ii)

Provision of unbonded membranes for testing

iii)

Provision of systems bonded to concrete for

testing

Dimensions
Weight
Handling temperatures

iv)

Provision of a site trial on an actual bridge deck.

The manufacturer may withdraw from the remainder of

the test programme at the completion of any of these
stages.

August 1999

Liquid Applied Systems

Mixing time of components
Pot life of mixed liquid materials
Nominal coverage rates
Setting time
Cured/dry density
Mix details
Dry film minimum/maximum thickness (Note. HA
requirement for 2mm minimum thickness: see paragraph
C12)

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Appendix B

B2.2 Unbonded (As Received) Membranes

It is necessary for samples of unbonded sheets, boards
and cured/dry film of liquid applied membranes
(prepared by the manufacturer or their representative in
the presence of the BBA) to be submitted for the test
programme.
The following sample sizes are required.
Sheet systems - Minimum 3 standard rolls

Demould after 24 hours.

Store under wet hessian and polythene sheet at
normal ambient room conditions for 6 days.
Store uncovered at normal ambient room
conditions for at least 21 days.
With BBA in attendance samples of the waterproofing
membrane/system are to be bonded to the blocks by the
manufacturer or their representative.
The following minimum number of blocks are required
to test one waterproofing system:

Board systems - Minimum to cover 5 square metres

72 size (A) blocks

12 size (B) blocks
9 size (C) blocks with crack inducers

Liquid applied - Free film to cover 5 square

systems
metres minimum size (1 x 1)m

Preparation of Concrete Test Blocks

For systems using a separate bonding agent (eg those

using oxidised bitumen adhesive or similar), the adhesive
is to be omitted from a central circular area of 120mm
diameter for selected tests (see B3). This is in order that
the system may be tested without the influence of the
adhesive. For this requirement size (A) blocks shall be
used. The system is bonded around the periphery only of
the block, leaving the central area unbonded. This
requirement will normally apply to selected sheet
systems and is referred to in paragraph B4.2(d).

Three sizes of concrete test blocks are to be used for the

bonded membrane tests.

B2.4 Site Trial

In addition, following a successful outcome to checks

and basic tests by the BBA (B3.1 and B3.2),
membranes/systems bonded to concrete (prepared by the
manufacturer or their representative in the presence of
the BBA) will be required for B3.3 and B4.2.
B2.3 Preparation of Bonded Systems

(A)

(170 x 170 x 55)mm

(B)

(300 x 300 x 55)mm

(C)

(400 x 220 x 55)mm with crack inducer see Fig 1

Following the successful results of the laboratory test

programme (see B3) the manufacturer or their
representative is then required to undertake a site trial
(see Appendix C).
B3.

TEST PROGRAMME

The tolerance on block dimensions shall be 3mm.

Portland Cement to BS 12 shall be used with mix
proportions by weight 1 : 2 : 3.5 (cement : sand :
aggregate) using 20mm gravel aggregate for Blocks A
and B and 10mm gravel aggregate for Blocks C in
accordance with BS 882 and having a water: cement
ratio of 0.5 maximum. The surface to which the
membrane is to be bonded shall have a U4 finish in
accordance with Clause 1708 of the Specification for
Highway Works (MCHW 1).
All blocks shall be cured and thoroughly dry before use.
A suitable curing regime is:

B1/2

The programme of tests and checks is sub-divided as

follows (Test Methods are given in B4.):
B3.1 Identification and Quality Control
Identification and quality control tests are to be defined
by the BBA for the purpose of checking manufacturers
submitted data (see B2.1). These control tests will not
form part of the Certification but the BBA will advise
the manufacturer on the suitability of the submitted
system for continuing with the Certification testing.
The manufacturer may withdraw at this stage.

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Part 4 BD 47/99

Appendix B

B3.2 Tests on Unbonded Sheets, Boards and Film of

Liquid Applied Membranes (As Received From
Manufacturer)

B3.3 Tests on Waterproofing Membranes/Systems

Bonded to Concrete
These tests shall be applied to all systems.

Dimensional checks
(a)
For sheets and boards
(a) Straightness
(b) Width
(c) Thickness

Tests and Checks During Installation:

For films
i)

Nominal coverage rates of all liquid

components of the system.

ii)

Setting time of all liquid components of the

system under the recorded conditions of
installation including temperature and
humidity.

(d) Thickness

The thickness of prefabricated sheet and board samples

submitted for examination and testing shall comply with
the nominal thickness intended with a tolerance of
10%.

iii) Resistance to pin/blow holing (principally

liquid applied membranes).

For all systems:

Weight per unit area
Water absorption
Resistance to water penetration including
penetration through joints etc.
Resistance to damage
Change in flexibility
Dimensional stability

iv) Effects of moisture on setting time (liquid

applied membranes).
(b)

Tests After Installation

i)

Tensile adhesion test (tat)

ii)

Resistance to chloride ion penetration (cip)

iii) Resistance to freeze thaw +(cip) and (tat)

Handling tests

iv) Resistance to heat ageing +(cip) and (tat)

(a) Unrolling of sheet materials (complete rolls)

(b) Unrolling sheet materials off a mandrel
(c) Tests on boards

v)

Resistance to chisel impact +(cip)

vi) Resistance to aggregate indentation +(cip)

For sheet and board materials:

vii) Resistance to thermal shock, heat ageing

and crack cycling +(cip)

Resistance to tear
Ability to lay flat
Ease of cutting and preparation

viii) Surfacing to waterproofing system interface

shear adhesion test

For sheet materials only:

Resistance to recoil
Resistance to edge curl
Ability to bend through 90
Ability to be tapped to 90 corner
Failure to meet any of the test requirements may result
in the BBA refusing Certification or placing limitations
on use.
The manufacturer shall be advised and may withdraw
from the remainder of the test programme.

August 1999

ix) Surfacing to waterproofing system interface

tensile bond test.
(c)

Failure to meet any of the test requirements of this

stage may result in the BBA refusing Certification
or placing limitations on use.

The manufacturer shall be advised and may withdraw

from the remainder of the test programme.
(d)

A copy of the test report shall be lodged by the

BBA with the HA who in consultation with the
BBA will confirm whether the assessment may
proceed to the site trial.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Appendix B

B3.4 Site Trial Checks and Tests

ii)

Prior to installation of the waterproofing system the

BBA shall verify:

Width shall be measured to an accuracy of 1.0mm

at 10 evenly spaced intervals along the full length
of the sheet or board. This shall remain uniform
within 10mm from the nominal.

i)

ii)

the suitability and condition of the bridge

deck for the site trial including any
preparation necessary.

iii) Thickness
Thickness shall be measured to an accuracy of
0.01mm using a micrometer or dial gauge with an
8mm diameter circular foot loaded to exert a
pressure of 0.02N/mm2. 60 measurements shall be
made on specimens taken over the whole area. For
mineral dressed sheets measurements shall also be
made along the selvedge. For sheets and boards
measurements are over the full length and width at
regular intervals and for cured liquid applied
membranes over the central (1 x 1)m, ignoring the
edge perimeter width of at least 50mm. For sheets
and boards the thickness at any location shall be
within 10% of the nominal thickness.

the quality assurance statement of all

materials forming the waterproofing system.

During the installation of the waterproofing system and

the asphalt surfacing the BBA shall record the following
as applicable:
Age of concrete
Installation temperature of the system
Relative humidity
Weather conditions
Nominal coverage rates
Setting time
Thickness applied
Pin/blow holing/blistering
Bond of the membrane to the concrete bridge deck
In situ integrity NDT method(s)
Repair procedure
Workmanship and supervision
Damage to system prior to asphalt surfacing
Temperature of asphalt applied
Damage caused by asphalt surfacing
Bond of the asphalt surfacing to the system
B4.

TEST METHODS

For all tests where the temperatures are (-10 2)C,

(+23 2)C and (+40 2)C respectively the RH at 23C
shall be (50 5)% and the actual RH at the other
temperatures shall be recorded.
B4.1 Tests on Unbonded Sheets, Boards and Film of
Liquid Applied Membranes (where applicable)
(a)

(b)

Weight per Unit Area

A minimum of three specimens (150 x 150)mm each

weighed to an accuracy of 0.01 grammes.
(c)

Water Absorption

The specimens used for weight measurement shall be

immersed in a water bath for 28 days at (23 2)C and
then re-weighed after removing the surface water. The
increase in weight shall not exceed 7%.
Specimens which exceed this limit shall be subjected to
freezing for 24 hours at (-10 2)C. After the freeze
period the specimen shall be conditioned for at least
4 hours at (23 2)C and then observed under a
minimum of x20 magnification for damage or thickness
change.

Dimensional Checks

When compared with a control specimen there shall be

no damage and for sheets and boards any change in
thickness shall be limited to 10% of the control
thickness.

i)

(d)

Straightness of sheets and boards

Sheets shall be unrolled over a 10m length (or the

length of the roll if less) and boards laid flat along
a straight edge at an ambient temperature of
(23 2)C. The deviation from the straight edge to
be no more than 10mm in any 2m length.

B1/4

Width of sheets and boards

Resistance to Water Penetration

Three specimens of membrane, (250 x 250)mm, are

subjected to a water pressure of 0.6 atmospheres over a
diameter of 150mm at a test temperature of (23 2)C.
Specimens consisting of maximum 100mm overlaps, and
where appropriate butt joints are also tested. The
specimens shall be fully supported by a metal gauze
sheet. There shall be no water penetration after 28 days.

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(e)

Handling Tests

Appendix B

The following requirements shall apply:

The following are basically qualitative tests to give

initial indication of suitability.

i)

A minimal increase in the stiffness with no

embrittlement.

Rolls of Sheet Membranes

ii)

No damage, cracking, permanent set or

dimensional instability.

iii)

Membrane easily cut to shape with minimal

contamination of cutting blade.

iv)

Good resistance to tearing under normal handling.

Complying with the manufacturers storage

conditions rolls of sheet membranes are placed in
a temperature controlled cabinet at (-10 2)C,
(23 2)C and (40 2)C respectively for
24 hours. The manufacturer may declare a
reduced temperature range for handling but this
shall include 4C to 30C and the range limits
shall be tested. The membranes are then unrolled
immediately on removal from the cabinet.
The following requirements shall apply:
i)

No edge damage to roll during storage

ii)

One man operation to unroll

iii)

Minimal increase in stiffness of the sheet

iv)

Membrane shall lay flat without damage or

rucking

v)

No cracking in the membrane on unrolling

vi)

Recoil shall not exceed 2.5m over a length of 10m

vii)

Edge curl shall not exceed a height of 50mm in

150mm

viii) Deviation from the straight edge shall be limited

to 10mm in any 2m length.
Unrolling Sheet Membranes from a Mandrel
Three longitudinal and three transverse specimens
(450 x 50)mm are cut from the roll, wound onto a 25mm
diameter mandrel and secured with tape.
These are then placed in a temperature controlled
cabinet at (-10 2)C, (23 2)C and (40 2)C
respectively for 24 hours. They are then unwound slowly
at the stored temperature.
The following tests shall be conducted:
One end is bent through 90 and the other end is tapped
gently to a 90 corner.
The ease of cutting is checked using a razor edged knife.

August 1999

Board Materials
Specimens and sizes prepared similarly to those
for unrolling sheet membranes from a mandrel but
laid flat in a cabinet under the same temperature
conditions.
The flexibility, damage and tendency for
dimensional instability are checked as above.
The tear and ease of cutting are checked for
boards as above.
If the handling tests are unsatisfactory at the minimum
and maximum temperatures, intermediate temperatures
may need to be included. The membrane shall be
rejected if there is an unsatisfactory performance
between 4C and 30C.
Membranes not conforming to the full range but
satisfactory at the reduced range shall have these limits
quoted on the Certificate.
B4.2 Tests on Waterproofing Systems Bonded to
Concrete
(a)
Resistance to Pin/Blow Holing (principally
liquid applied membranes)
Four size (B) concrete blocks are used for this test.
Two size (B) blocks are immersed in water for a
minimum of 24 hours, removed and the surface allowed
to dry in still air for up to two hours at (23 2)C. The
sealer/primer and waterproofing membrane is applied
according to the manufacturers requirements to all four
blocks as one or two coats. The samples are observed
after two hours for pin/blow holes or blisters.
Temperature and RH should be recorded during the test.
There shall be no blisters and not more than four pin/
blow holes continuous or non-continuous within a
central area of (250 x 250)mm for both samples. The

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Volume 2 Section 3
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Appendix B

size of any pin/blow hole present shall be recorded and

no pin/blow hole shall exceed 1mm in diameter. The
requirement for pin/blow holing applies to single-coat,
two or more coat membranes.

(e)

Where single coat membranes do not meet the above

requirements the manufacturer shall be given the
opportunity of applying the membrane as two or more
coats to the same total thickness. If then acceptable the
system shall be used as a two or more coat membrane
and the remainder of the tests shall be as for a two or
more coat membrane.

For membranes where a separate adhesive is used, the

samples for testing for cip alone, together with chisel
impact with cip [B3.3(b) (ii) and (v)], shall be unbonded
in the central circular 120mm diameter area (see
preparation of concrete test blocks B2.3). For all other
combined cip tests [B3.3(b)(iii), (iv), (vi) and (vii)], the
membranes shall be fully bonded.

(b)
Setting of a Liquid Applied Membrane on a
Concrete Block with a High Moisture Content

Note: For 3.3(b)(iv) size (B) block is required.

For 3.3(b)(vii) size (C) block is required.

During the pin/blow holing test the setting time of the

membrane on the four blocks is also noted. The nominal
value for the membrane on the wetted blocks shall be
within 10% of the nominal setting time on the dry
blocks, unless the manufacturer specifies differently. If
this applies then the time shall accord with the
manufacturers declared limits.

A glass vessel, 100mm diameter (Figure 3) is sealed

with a silicone or similar suitable adhesive to the surface
of the membrane. For mineral dressed membranes the
dressing may need to be modified or removed in the area
of the seal to ensure adequate sealing.

(c)
Nominal Coverage Rates of all Liquid
Components of the System
During preparation of the samples, nominal coverage
rates will be confirmed by the manufacturer or their
representative.
(d)

Resistance to Chloride Ion Penetration

Three size (A) concrete blocks are to be used for this test
[B3.3(b)(ii)].

The vessel is filled with 1.47 litres of saturated sodium

chloride solution which makes contact with the
membrane surface. The test is conducted at (23 2)C
over a period of 28 days. Water penetration or
absorption is detected by a fall in the level of the liquid.
Observations of surface sweating and wicking of salt
solution along an interface are made periodically. The
solution, vessel and membrane are then removed.

Tensile Adhesion Test

Bond of waterproofing membrane to concrete substrate.

Nine size (A) concrete blocks with membranes fully
bonded are to be used for this test ie 3 blocks for each
test temperature. On each block, an area of membrane,
(100 x 100)mm, is isolated by cutting down to the
concrete without disturbance to the membrane. A steel
plate, (100 x 100 x 10)mm is bonded to this area with a
suitable adhesive. A tensile pull off apparatus that
locates onto the surface of the plate is used (eg Figure
2). The loading shall be applied progressively at a rate
of (0.4 0.2)kN/sec. The test shall be carried out in
temperature controlled conditions at (-10 2)C,
(23 2)C and (40 2)C respectively. The test samples
shall have been preconditioned at the above temperatures
for at least 2 hours.

A sample of powdered concrete is taken from the surface

of the concrete block using the profile grinding
technique. The sample shall be obtained by grinding the
surface of the concrete to a depth of 3mm.
Approximately 40 grams of dust shall be collected.
Two representative specimens, approximately 5 grams
each, are taken from the sampled dust and analysed for
chloride ion concentration. The average value of the two
results obtained from the analysis shall represent the
chloride ion concentration for each block.
Salt penetration is determined by measuring the
percentage of chloride ions present in the powdered
concrete sample. Ion selective electrode method shall be
used.
The following requirements shall be met after 28 days.

B1/6

The stress at failure for each individual sample

shall be not less than:

i)

0.3 N/mm2 at (-10 2)C and (23 2)C

respectively, and
0.2 N/mm2 at (40 2)C.

The maximum increase in chloride ion

concentration in the concrete shall be not more
than 0.04%.

ii)

The maximum loss in volume of the liquid in the

test vessel shall be less than 20ml.

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iii)

There shall not be any significant surface

sweating.

iv)

There shall not be any significant inter-laminar

salt penetration.

v)

There shall not be any deterioration or debonding

of the membrane from the concrete.

(f)

Resistance to Freeze-Thaw

Six size (A) concrete blocks with the membrane bonded

are to be used for this test. Three of the blocks with
membrane fully bonded are used for water absorption/
freeze-thaw/tensile adhesion B4.2(d) tests and three
blocks with the membrane fully bonded but partially
bonded for membranes using a separate adhesive (see
B2.3) are for the water absorption/freeze-thaw/chloride
ion penetration (B4.2(e)) test. The six samples are
subjected to water absorption (using deionised water) for
28 days at (23 2)C using a 100mm diameter vessel
and pipe coupling as shown in Figure 4.
Membranes exhibiting up to 7% water absorption
determined in B4.1(c) shall be subjected to 6 freeze-thaw
cycles. Membranes exhibiting more than 7% water
absorption (see paragraph B4.1(c)) shall be subjected to
20 freeze-thaw cycles. Each cycle shall consist of 8
hours freeze at (-10 2)C and 16 hours thaw at
(23 2)C. During the thawing period water is
introduced into the pipe coupling collar to a depth of
approximately 50mm. The water is then removed before
commencing the freeze cycle. On completion of the
freeze-thaw cycling the samples are conditioned for at
least 24 hours at (23 2)C. Three samples are then
subjected to the tensile adhesion test (B4.2(d)) and the
remaining three samples to the chloride ion test
(B4.4(e)). The requirements for both these tests shall
apply at (23 2)C.
If there is severe loss of salt solution but no increase in
chloride ion concentration in the concrete, further
investigation shall be made by the BBA.
(g)

Appendix B

(h)

Resistance to Chisel Impact

The membrane bonded to nine size (A) blocks (prepared

in accordance with B2.3 and B4.2(e)) are to be used for
this test, ie 3 blocks for each test temperature. The test
shall be carried out in temperature controlled conditions
at (-10 2)C, ( 23 2)C, and (40 2)C respectively.
The chisel impact apparatus and the test specimen shall
be preconditioned at the respective temperatures for at
least 2 hours.
A chisel head 20mm wide with a 90 tip angle and
weighing 1.0kg is dropped from a height of 200mm
directly onto the central test area of the membrane. The
chisel is guided through a linear bearing inside a tube of
low thermal conductivity (Figure 5). Five impacts are
made within an area delineated by a circle of 75mm
diameter.
The chloride ion test (B4.2(e)) at (23 2)C shall then be
applied. If one of the three samples indicates an
unacceptable increase in chloride ion concentration or
significantly high solution volume loss, the test shall be
repeated on a further three samples and all of these
specimens are required to pass the test.
(i)

Resistance to Aggregate Indentation

Systems (excluding any tack coat) with an overall

thickness of 20mm or greater are exempted from this
test.
The tests are conducted at (40 2)C, (80 3)C and
(125 3)C.
Nine size (A) concrete blocks with the system fully
bonded (excluding any tack coat) are to be used for these
tests, ie 3 blocks for each test temperature.
Each concrete block is first measured within the central
75mm diameter test area at 4 separate locations using a
template (Figure 6) with a dial gauge. The system is then
fully bonded and the block re-measured at the same 4
locations using the template and the dial gauge.

Resistance to Heat Ageing

Six size (A) concrete blocks with the membrane fully

bonded are to be used for the two aspects of this test.
All samples are placed in a ventilated oven and
maintained at (70 3)C for 28 days. These are then
conditioned for at least 24 hours at (23 2)C. Three
samples are subjected to the chloride ion test (B4.2(e))
and the remaining three samples are subjected to the
tensile adhesion test (B4.2(d)). The requirements for
both these tests shall apply at (23 2)C.

August 1999

The system thickness is calculated by subtracting the

measured concrete block thickness from the total
thickness. The mean thickness of the system is
calculated from the four results. For sheet and board
systems the thickness shall comply within 10% of the
declared nominal thickness.

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Appendix B

Aggregate Indentation Test at 40C

All systems shall be subjected to aggregate indentation
at (40 2)C. This is to simulate the compaction of loose
aggregates into the system during normal site activities
prior to the APL being applied.
Aggregate indentation is simulated by a steel indentor in
the shape of a truncated cone. The cone angle is 90, the
diameter at the truncation 8mm and the diameter at the
base not less than 25mm. Indentation is produced by
forcing the truncated end into the system using a test
machine that measures force and displacement
simultaneously. The indentor is electrically heated to a
temperature of (40 2)C and the samples shall have
been preconditioned for at least 4 hours at (40 2)C.
The test is conducted at a temperature of (40 2)C
checked by a probe or thermocouple (Figure 7).
Indentations are made in the same 4 locations as the
thickness measurements. Each indentation is made by
driving the indentor into the system at a rate of 5mm/
minute. Indentation is stopped when the force applied
reaches 1000N. The load is removed at the same rate.
The sample is then conditioned for a minimum of 24
hours at (23 2)C to allow the system to recover.
The overall thickness is then measured at the same 4
locations using the template and the dial gauge.
Individual thickness measurements are then determined
by subtracting the concrete block thickness from the
overall thickness.
Indentation after the recovery period shall not exceed
50% of the initial thickness of the system.
The chloride ion test (B4.2(e)) at (23 2)C shall then be
applied.
Aggregate Indentation Test at 80C
This test including the chloride ion test (B4.2(e)) at
(23 2)C is the same as that at (40 2)C except that
the temperature of the indentor is (80 3)C and the
indentor is stopped when the force reaches 500N.
Aggregate Indentation Test at 125C
This test shall be carried out unless the manufacturer
indicates that the system is not suitable to be tested at
(125 3)C.
The indentor, number of indentations, application loads
and procedure are the same as for the test at (40 2)C

B1/8

except that the preconditioning temperature shall be (50

3)C.
The temperature controlled cabinet is maintained at
(50 3)C. The indentor is electrically heated to a
constant (125 3)C.
The requirements for indentation and chloride ion test
(B4.2(e)) at (23 2)C remain as for the test at
(40 2)C.
If the system fails to meet these criteria at (125 3)C
but is satisfactory at (80 3)C and (40 2)C then APL
shall always be applied. (Also see paragraph 9.4 for
relaxation of APL).
(j)
Thermal Shock, Heat Ageing and Crack
Cycling
Nine size (C) concrete blocks with the membrane fully
bonded are to be used for this test, ie 3 blocks for each
test temperature. See Figure 1 for extent of membrane
application. For liquid applied membranes the concrete
block shall be masked over length ways, 40mm either
side before applying the membrane.
The sample is first subjected to a thermal shock to
simulate the application of hot surfacing, and then heat
ageing followed by crack cycling.
i)

Thermal Shock
A wooden box with no base, having a wall
thickness of 50mm, a height of 55mm and internal
plan of (170 x 170)mm is placed on the membrane
in the centre of the test block over the area where
the crack cycling test is to be made. A
thermocouple or similar is placed on the surface
of the membrane within the box and the
temperature progressively recorded. Aluminium
foil (thin gauge) is laid on the membrane and lines
the inside of the box.
A suitable heat source, such as liquid bitumen or
hot sand is poured into the box and sealed in to
give a temperature of (145 5)C on the surface
of the membrane. Due to heat loss the initial
temperature of the heated material is to be
approximately 240C. After two hours the heat
source is removed and the sample conditioned at
(23 2)C for at least 4 hours.
If necessary where the membrane incorporates a
protective layer, this may be removed to permit
examination of the membrane proper for cracks.

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Volume 2 Section 3
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ii)

Heat Ageing
The samples are placed in a ventilated oven and
maintained at (70 3)C for 28 days. These are
then conditioned for 24 hours at (23 2)C.

iii)

Crack Cycling
Crack cycling is conducted at (-10 2)C,
(23 2)C and (40 2)C respectively after the
recovery period of the heat ageing test.
Initial cracking of the sample at the crack inducer
(Figure 1) is made using a suitable crack cycling
apparatus (Figure 8). Cracking is induced at
(23 2)C and the crack width is limited to
1.0mm. The sample is then cycled at a rate of 1
cycle/second to the maximum crack width at one
of the above temperatures and subjected to a total
of 100 cycles. On completion the crack is
maintained at maximum opening for 24 hours at
the test temperature.
There shall be no visually obvious cracks in the
membrane proper at any stage during the test.
After conditioning the test sample for a minimum
of 24 hours at (23 2)C the chloride ion test
(B4.2(e)) at (23 2)C shall be applied.

The complete test is repeated for each of the above

temperatures.
(k)
Surfacing to Waterproofing System Interface
Shear Adhesion Test
This test is conducted at (-10 2)C, (23 2)C and
(40 2)C. Fifteen size (A) concrete blocks ie 5 blocks
for each test temperature are used with the system fully
bonded together with any tack coat specified for the
system.
Samples are prepared with an overlay of sand asphalt
and/or hot rolled asphalt using mixtures as specified in
BS 594: Part 1, the rolling temperature being within the
range specified in BS 594: Part 2 but not exceeding the
maximum values given in Clause 901.9 of the
Specification (MCHW 1), and in particular

or

i)

where a minimum rolling temperature to

achieve bond to the system is declared, this
shall be applied

ii)

where a tack coat forms part of the system

the rolling temperature shall be the minimum
temperature declared to activate the tack
coat.

August 1999

Appendix B

The sand asphalt and hot rolled asphalt shall be prepared

as and when required in compliance with BS 594:
Part 1. Reheated material shall not be used.
For samples overlaid with sand asphalt, it shall be
compacted to a nominal thickness of 20 mm and the total
overlay thickness made up with hot rolled asphalt laid
and compacted to a finished total nominal thickness of
50mm. Sand asphalt shall comply with BS 594: Part 1,
recipe Type F wearing course mixture Designation 0/3
except that (5 0.5)% of the total mix shall be inorganic
red oxide and regarded as part of the filler content. The
make-up of the hot rolled asphalt shall comply with BS
594: Part 1, Table 2, Column 2/1.
For samples overlaid with hot rolled asphalt only it shall
comply with BS 594: Part 1: Table 2, Column 2/1, and
be laid and compacted to a nominal thickness of 50mm.
The binder throughout shall be 50 pen bitumen
complying with BS 3690: Part 1. The coarse aggregate
shall comply with BS 594: Part 1, Clause 2.2, Group (a)
granite and the sand fine aggregate with Clause 2.3.
The test samples shall have been pre-conditioned at
(-10 2)C, (23 2)C and (40 2)C for at least 4
hours and then supported in a test frame (Figure 9). This
complete apparatus is placed in a temperature controlled
cabinet and maintained at one of the test temperatures.
A shearing force shall be applied to the sand asphalt
and/or hot rolled asphalt via a steel loading plate at the
rate of 20mm/minute; the load and deformation
characteristics being continuously recorded. The test
shall be continued until the sample fails. The assembly is
then removed, the failure interface and peak force noted
and failure stress determined. The stress at failure for
each individual sample shall be not less than
0.2N/mm2 at (-10 2)C and (23 2)C respectively, and
0.1N/mm2 at (40 2)C.
(l)
Surfacing to Waterproofing System Interface
Tensile Bond Test
Four size (B) concrete blocks are to be used with the
system fully bonded together with any tack coat
specified for the system.
Specimens are prepared with an overlay of sand asphalt
or hot rolled asphalt using a mixture as specified in
BS 594: Part 1, the rolling temperature being within the
range specified in BS 594 : Part 2 but not exceeding the
maximum values given in Clause 901.9 of the
Specification (MCHW 1), and in particular

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Appendix B

i)

or

ii)

where a minimum rolling temperature to

achieve bond to the system is declared, this
shall be applied
where a tack coat forms part of the system
the rolling temperature shall be the minimum
temperature declared to activate the tack
coat.

The sand asphalt and hot rolled asphalt shall be prepared

as and when required in compliance with BS 594:
Part 1. Reheated material shall not be used.
For samples overlaid with sand asphalt, it shall be laid
and compacted to a nominal thickness of 20mm and
comply with BS 594: Part 1 recipe Type F wearing
course mixture Designation 0/3 except that (5 0.5)%
of the total mix shall be inorganic red oxide and
regarded as part of the filler content.
For samples overlaid with hot rolled asphalt, it shall
comply with BS 594: Part 1, Table 2, Column 2/1, and
be laid and compacted to a nominal thickness of 50mm.
The binder throughout shall be 50 pen bitumen
complying with BS 3690: Part 1. The coarse aggregate
shall comply with BS 594: Part 1, Clause 2.2, Group (a)
granite and the sand fine aggregate with Clause 2.3.
On each sample two test areas (100 x 100)mm are
isolated by cutting down to the concrete without
disturbance to the complete system. Steel plates are
bonded to the test areas with a suitable adhesive
(see Fig 10).

B5.

REFERENCES

The following documents are referred to in this

Appendix B.
B5.1 Manual of Contract Documents for Highway
Works
Volume 1: Specification for Highway Works
(MCHW 1).
B5.2 British Standards
BS 12: 1989 Specification for Portland cements.
BS 882: 1992 Specification for aggregates from
natural sources for concrete.
BS 594: Part 1: 1992 Hot rolled asphalt for roads
and other paved areas. Specification for
constituent materials and asphalt mixtures.
BS 594: Part 2: 1992 Hot rolled asphalt for roads
and other paved areas. Specification for the
transport, laying and compaction of rolled
asphalt.
BS 3690: Part 1: 1989 Bitumens for building and
civil engineering. Specification for bitumens and
for roads and other paved areas.

The test shall be carried out at (23 2)C on a tensile

testing machine with a crosshead speed of 20mm/minute.
The test samples shall have been preconditioned at
(23 2)C for at least 4 hours. Bond failure at the
interface of the system and the sand asphalt or hot rolled
asphalt shall be not less than 0.1N/mm2 for each
specimen.
B4.3 Site Trial
(a)
Procedures and requirements for the site trial are
given in Appendix C
(b)
The site trial shall be formally assessed by the
BBA. The HA reserve the right to attend any site trial.

B1/10

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Appendix B

FIGURE 1 CONCRETE TEST BLOCK WITH CRACK INDUCER

(SCALE 1:4 APPROX) ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

August 1999

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FIGURE 2

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EXAMPLE OF A TENSILE PULL-OFF (SCALE: HALF FULL SIZE)

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FIGURE 4 EXPOSURE TO WATER OR
CHLORIDE IONS GLASSWARE
(SCALE 1:3 APPROX)
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Appendix B

B1/13

FIGURE 3 CHLORIDE ION PENETRATION TEST

(SCALE 1:3 APPROX)
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Appendix B

Volume 2 Section 3
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FIGURE 5

B1/14

CHISEL IMPACT APPARATUS (SCALE: 1:3 APPROX)

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Appendix B

FIGURE 6 AGGREGATE INDENTATION TEST TEMPLATE

(SCALE HALF FULL SIZE) ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

August 1999

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Appendix B

FIGURE 7

AGGREGATE INDENTATION TEST (SCALES 1:10 & 1:2 APPROX)

FIGURE 8

B1/16

CRACK CYCLING APPARATUS (SCALE 1:6 APPROX)

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Appendix B

Volume 2 Section 3
Part 4 BD 47/99

FIGURE 9

FIGURE 10

August 1999

SHEAR ADHESION APPARATUS (SCALE 1:3 APPROX)

PREPARED SAMPLE FOR CHECK OF INTERFACE TENSILE BOND

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Appendix C

PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR

CERTIFICATION SITE TRIALS FOR PERMITTED
WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS (PWS)
Part of the requirements for the award of a BBA Roads
and Bridges Agrment Certificate for a PWS is a
successful site trial on an actual bridge deck. This can
take place only after the laboratory tests and checks
have been successfully completed by the BBA. It is then
for the manufacturer or their representative of the PWS
to arrange for the system to be installed on a suitable
bridge.
In arranging the site trial the manufacturer or their
representative shall take into account the following
procedures and requirements.
C1. Where a bridge is being considered for the site
trial the bridge owner or highway authority shall
consider the importance of the bridge location (ie not on
a strategic route), when giving agreement in principle to
the installation of a waterproofing system undergoing a
Certification site trial.
C2. The BBA shall be sent a general arrangement
drawing of the bridge showing the size and type of deck
including a cross section showing details of the
waterproofing system. A minimum deck area of 150
square metres is necessary and the bridge shall include
some features such as parapet upstands, service bays,
chases and fillets. Also required are details of
(a)

Bridge name, location and bridge owner/highway

authority.

(b)

Whether the bridge is of new construction or in

the course of maintenance.

(c)

Surfacing type, thickness and size and type of

aggregate when not given on the drawing.

(d)

Additional protective layer ie sand asphalt to be

applied to the system.

(e)

Make-up of deck concrete ie proportion of cement

replacements and other additives in the concrete.

(f)

Concrete curing method.

(g)

Proposed dates of installation of the system and

surfacing. When this is not known then the likely
dates which can be confirmed as the programme
progresses.

August 1999

C3. Where the BBA confirms that the bridge is

acceptable for the site trial the manufacturer or their
representative may pursue arrangements with the
highway authority and the Contractor and shall advise
them that the site trial will be formally assessed by the
BBA. HA reserve the right to attend the site trial.
C4. The site trial shall be performed in a
workmanlike manner by trained operatives under
competent supervision and shall afford the level of
quality of workmanship required for the Certification.
C5. In addition to the BBA Roads and Bridges
Agrment Certification requirements the works shall
comply with the Specification for Highway Works
(MCHW1).
C6. The site trial shall include observation of the
preparation of the concrete deck, the installation of the
waterproofing system and the surfacing. The
performance of the system between its installation and
prior to overlaying with the surfacing shall also be
monitored.
C7.
On arrival at the trial site the BBA shall inspect
the condition of the concrete deck. This shall be U4
finish but the manufacturer or their representative may
opt to apply the system on a deck with a lesser finish in
consultation with the BBA. In such a case the system
will be expected to perform as though the finish was U4.
The deck surface shall be clean, dry and free from ice,
frost and laitance etc as given in Clause 2001 of the
Specification (MCHW 1).
C8. Before any part of the waterproofing system is
installed the BBA shall verify that the system is as that
submitted for the laboratory tests.
C9. Discrepancies that arise with respect to either site
conditions or changes to the waterproofing system shall
be agreed with the BBA before the site trial can proceed.
C10. On site the concrete surface and air temperature
shall be measured by the manufacturer or their
representative using thermocouples or similar. This shall
be checked frequently over the period of the site trial.
The relative humidity shall also be noted at the same
time.

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Appendix C

C11. The nominal coverage rates and setting times of

the liquid components of the system shall accord with
the manufacturers specification. Checks shall be made
for ponding of primers and any ponding that has
occurred shall be minimal.
C12. During and after installation of the system the
following requirements shall apply:
i)

The hot bitumen adhesives for sheet systems shall

not be greater than 240C measured using a
suitable temperature probe by the manufacturer or
their representative.

ii)

The thickness of liquid membranes shall be a

minimum of 2mm over peaks, arrises and
irregularities in the concrete deck and shall be
checked with a wet film thickness gauge or other
appropriate method by the manufacture or their
representative.

iii)

There shall be appropriate bond to the concrete

substrate checked by the manufacturer or their
representative and it shall be virtually free from
visible defects including pin/blow holes and
blisters which shall be made good by repair before
being covered.

iv)

Sheet and board systems shall be laid to follow

the contours of the deck surface and be free from
ripples and rucks.

v)

Laps in sheet systems shall comply with Clause

2005.6 of the Specification (MCHW 1). Butt
joints in board systems shall be formed in
accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

vi)

The manufacturer or their representative laying

the waterproofing system at the site trial shall
demonstrate to the BBA an acceptable repair
method.

aggregate indentation test in the laboratory, Clauses C13

to C22 inclusive shall apply except that the APL shall be
replaced with asphalt surfacing.
C15 The placing temperature of the APL or asphalt
surfacing, measured with a suitable temperature probe
by the manufacturer or their representative shall not
exceed 145C. The minimum rolling temperature of the
APL or asphalt surfacing shall not be less than that
specified in BS 594 Part 2 or less than the minimum
declared activation temperature for bond to the system,
whichever is greater.
C16. Prior to the completion of the APL or asphalt
surfacing laying on site, the compacted but still hot APL
or asphalt surfacing is removed from a sample area of
the system and any damage to the waterproofing
membrane is observed.
C17 If damage has occurred restrictions on any
further application of the surfacing may be imposed and
the damaged waterproofing membrane shall be repaired
or replaced.
C18. Where no damage occurs the cut back areas are
then filled with new APL or asphalt surfacing and
compacted.
C19. Throughout the site trial, workmanship,
supervision and general site procedure will be observed
by the BBA. Where this is at an unacceptably low
standard, Certification shall not be granted.
C20. Where the system is deemed to have failed the
site trial, the Contractor shall be instructed to remove the
failed system from the bridge and dispose off-site. The
bridge shall then be waterproofed with a registered
system.

C13. The waterproofing system shall be checked for

damage before applying the APL or asphalt surfacing.
Where damage has occurred it shall be suitably repaired
before the trial proceeds.

C21. If during the site trial it is considered that the

system is unlikely to proceed to a successful conclusion,
then the manufacturer or their representative may be
given an opportunity to abort the site trial and propose
modifications to the system/procedures to be considered
for a further trial. The manufacturer or their
representative shall provide a written report to the BBA
with proposed changes that would overcome identified
deficiencies in the original submission. If the proposed
modifications are acceptable to the BBA the
manufacturer or their representative will be allowed to
make arrangements for a further site trial.

C14. In order to dispense with the requirement of the

APL for waterproofing systems which are less than
20mm thick and which have complied with the 125C

C22. Notwithstanding Clause C21, the bridge owner/

highway authority reserve the right to have the bridge
waterproofed with a registered system.

vii)

C1/2

The manufacturer or their representative shall

demonstrate the integrity of the waterproofing
membrane by an appropriate NDT method agreed
with the BBA.

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