Shape Memory Polymer-Based Sealant for a Compression Sealed Joint

Abstract

In this paper, the authors report a case study of synthesis, fabrication, programming, installation, and performance monitoring of a shape memory polymer (SMP) based smart sealant for compression sealed joint in a concrete pavement. Two types of SMPs were synthesized and SMP panels were fabricated. Panels made of one type of SMP were programmed by one-dimensional (1D) stress condition, and panels from the other type of SMP were programmed either by two-dimensional (2D) stress condition or by 1D stress condition, leading to a total of three types of programmed SMP panels. The programmed panels were then installed in two compression sealed joints on a service concrete pavement. The two joints have been monitored for over two years. No evidence of failure has been found.