The project determined the effects of the form and dosage of silica fume admixtures and other concrete mixture parameters on the concrete properties most relevant to bridge-deck applications. It also developed recommendations for silica fume concrete mixtures suitable for these applications.

The use of silica fume concrete for bridge decks and bridge-deck overlays has become a widely accepted practice by many state highway agencies, primarily due to its favorable effects on permeability and compressive strength. Although a great deal of research has been performed on the effects of concrete-mixture variables on the properties of silica fume concrete, this research has not provided clear conclusions concerning the concrete mixtures that are well suited for bridge deck applications. There was a need to address the properties of silica fume concrete that significantly influence the performance of bridge decks and to develop recommendations for suitable mixtures.

Research included developing a statistically valid experiment design for a laboratory investigation, preparing test specimens, performing laboratory tests, and recommending silica fume concrete mixtures and construction practices to enhance the performance of bridge deck and bridge-deck overlays. NCHRP Report 410, "Silica Fume Concrete for Bridge Decks," documents the work performed in this research.