Pier design necessitates a thoughtful consideration of the wear and tear inflicted by passengers, various traffic types, and occasionally even vehicles. In marine environments, the durability and integrity of concrete are paramount to the pier’s lifespan, as it serves as a crucial barrier against chloride-induced corrosion.
To mitigate the gradual deterioration caused by continuous traffic loading, it is imperative to implement some form of surface protection. This can be achieved through the application of a wearing course, a sacrificial layer that absorbs the impact of traffic and shields the underlying concrete. Alternatively, increasing the concrete cover, the thickness of concrete protecting the reinforcement, can provide additional resistance to wear and abrasion.
The choice between these methods often depends on the specific conditions and expected traffic loads. A wearing course may be preferable for high-traffic areas, while increased concrete cover could suffice for lighter loads. Ultimately, the goal is to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and long-term protection, ensuring the pier’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal are maintained over time.