How do deicing salts affect steel bridges?

Study for the FHWA Bridge Inspection Techniques for NSTM exam. Prepare using flashcards, detailed explanations, and multiple-choice questions. Get equipped to excel in your certification!

Multiple Choice

How do deicing salts affect steel bridges?

Explanation:
Deicing salts introduce chloride ions that accelerate corrosion of exposed steel when moisture is present. They can damage protective coatings and coatings on steel components, allowing rust to form more quickly. As rust grows, it expands and forces against surrounding material, leading to cracking, spalling, and loss of cross‑section, which raises the risk of structural issues over time. The salts do not strengthen steel and they do have a meaningful effect on steel components, not just asphalt.

Deicing salts introduce chloride ions that accelerate corrosion of exposed steel when moisture is present. They can damage protective coatings and coatings on steel components, allowing rust to form more quickly. As rust grows, it expands and forces against surrounding material, leading to cracking, spalling, and loss of cross‑section, which raises the risk of structural issues over time. The salts do not strengthen steel and they do have a meaningful effect on steel components, not just asphalt.

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