Determination of characteristic data for the reliable characterization of joint grouting compounds

Joint filling systems in concrete roads are exposed to a large number of stresses during use, from which increased demands on the durability of the overall "joint" system are derived. In addition to seasonally fluctuating climatic influences, cyclic stresses from rolling traffic and aging of the joint compounds play a significant role. The increased incidence of damage to joint seals on both existing and new rail lines in recent years has necessitated relevant studies to identify the causes and to question the current regulations. Against this background, a practice-oriented test method was developed in this research project, with which, on the one hand, the behavior of the overall system "joint", consisting of concrete joint flanks, primer and joint compound, can be recorded on the basis of "system test specimens" and, on the other hand, the decisive scenarios of the in-situ stresses can be realistically represented.