Hydrodemolition and Bridge Widening & Repair
Learn about Hydrodemoltion and how it can SOLVE your bridge widening problemsWhat is hydrodemolition?
Hydrodemolition is a method of using high-pressure streams of water to blast away deteriorated concrete. The water aquajet process works to remove a layers of concrete, exposing the rebar below the surface and providing an excellent bonding surface for fresh concrete. It is the optimal solution for bridge repair and widening projects.
Why choose hydrodemolition?
- Precise concrete removal: The process allows concrete to be removed to very precise depths and creates a uniform surface.
- Preserves structural integrity: Hydrodemolition does not cause micro-cracks in the remaining structure, ensuring long-lasting, high-quality repairs.
- No impact or vibration: It does not introduce impact and vibration into a structure, unlike jackhammers or chipping hammers, protecting worker health and safety by reducing vibrations.
- Rebar protection: The process preserves reinforcement bars, keeping them clean and intact.
- Improved bonding: It prepares an ideal surface for bonding between old and new concrete.
- Environmental benefits: Reduced air and noise pollution, and water used in the process can be quickly captured and treated to reduce runoff contamination.
- Selective removal: Hydrodemolition allows both selective and non-selective concrete removal, depending on the project's needs.
- Fully Robotic: Worker health and safety are improved by automating the concrete removal.
Want to learn more? Join us for a Lunch and Learn and see how your projects can benefit from hydrodemolition.

Examples of Bridge Repair & Widening Projects with Hydrodemolition
Ferrovial Construction & NTE CIP
Ferrovial Construction successfully utilized hydrodemolition for the North Tarrant Express Capacity Improvements Project in Texas. This innovative method allowed precise and environmentally sustainable demolition, enhancing worker safety and reducing public disruption. The technology recycled water, minimized debris, and preserved existing rebar, marking a significant milestone in the project.
"Due to the scope of work and because we are trying to keep as much of the existing structures as possible, we knew we had to think more creatively. We were exploring innovative solutions and learned about the hydro demolition and knew it would be a great fit for what we need to get done."
The Brent Spence Bridge
Hydrodemolition was key in the recent repairs of the Brent Spence Bridge, which connects Ohio and Kentucky. Built in 1963 for 80,000 vehicles daily, it now handles double that traffic, leading to wear and tear. Using hydrodemolition minimized traffic disruptions and preserved the bridge's structure, making it an efficient and safe repair method.
The Brooklyn Bridge
Hydrodemolition has proven effective in preserving historical landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, ensuring their safety while maintaining structural integrity. This method has been successfully used to repair and preserve key sections of the bridge, showcasing its ability to handle the complexities of maintaining large, iconic structures.
Remove Concrete without Damaging the Rebar
Hydrodemolition Protects Rebar

Hydrodemolition Reduces Air Pollution While Increasing Safety

How Aggregate Technologies Can Help
Give Your Project Manager the Ability to Use Specialty Demolition Services
Long shifts, safety concerns, and budget constraints are significant challenges in the roadwork industry. These issues are particularly complex in bridge improvement projects. Traditional demolition methods typically achieve concrete removal at a rate of about 50 feet per work shift. In contrast, Aggregate Technologies uses hydrodemolition technology to remove up to 150 feet of concrete per shift, significantly enhancing project efficiency. Save time and money while improving safety with hydrodemolition. Our track record speaks for itself.
- Core drilling
- Selective demolition
- Wall sawing
- Hydrodemolition
- Robotic demolition
- Pile cutting
- Wire sawing
- GPR scanning
- Slab sawing
