Underwater Inspection: When, Why, and How
By Rick Maslyn, CBI Some of the most important foundation elements of a bridge are its least visible – the abutments, piers, piles, and footings submerged under the waterline. Regular inspection, both above and below the waterline, helps to keep aging structures solid and stable. About the Expert: Rick Maslyn, Ayres’ supervisor of structural inspection,… Read More »
Tags: Bridge, Bridge Inspection, Erosion, FHWA, National Bridge Inspection Standards, NBIS, NHI, Scour, Underwater Bridge Inspection, Underwater Inspection, Unmanned Surface Vessel, USV
How to Minimize the Impact of Urban Heat Islands
Many city dwellers flee to the countryside to cool off when summer’s heat hits – and for good reason. Urban areas tend to be hotter than the surrounding countryside because of the “urban heat island” effect. Urban heat islands occur in urbanized areas where vegetation and trees have been greatly reduced or eliminated and there… Read More »
Tags: Albedo, Albedo Effect, Green Infrastructure, Heat Island, Impervious Surfaces, Permeable Surfaces, Smart Growth Practices, Urban Heat Island, Vegetated Roof, Vegetation
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Paved Roadways: Construction Materials, Temperature Extremes, and Drainage
Across the country, one-third of our highways and major streets are in poor condition, according to TRIP, a nonprofit transportation research group. Persistent potholes and recurring ruts wreak havoc with our commutes, impose financial burdens from automobile repairs, inflict significant injury, prompt contentious lawsuits, and account for roughly one-third of deaths occurring annually on American… Read More »
Tags: Asphalt Roads, Asphault vs Concrete, Concrete Roads, Potholes, Road Lifespan, Roadway Drainage, Roadway Wear and Tearm, Saw Cuts, Service Life, Substrate Composition