The goal of this research project is to validate and provide a basis to improve and refine a novel de-icing system for stay-cables. This autonomous de-icing system shows significant potential to cost-effectively remove ice build-up without damaging the protective system of the underlying stay-cable. However, currently there is no means to validate the operation and effectiveness of the system to both provide owners confidence to permit deployment, and provide a means to refine and improve the system itself. This lack of validation represents the key barrier to the widespread adoption and implementation of this system to existing and new cable-stay bridges throughout the U.S.

By undertaking this one-year project, CAIT will fill the need for validation of the system using the unique capabilities of the Bridge Evaluation and Accelerated Structural Testing (BEAST) laboratory. In particular, this lab will be used to recreate the operational conditions under which the novel de-icing system will be expected to operate. Once the performance of the system has been established, any identified deficiencies will be noted and recommendations provided for their mitigation.