PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

Thorma-Joint

Thorma-Joint is the original asphaltic plug expansion joint system. Introduced to

the US market by DSA, Ltd. in the late 1980s, it continues to be first choice
among bridge engineers seeking a cost effective reliable joint system for low
movement structures.
Thorma-Joint is a combination of BJ Super (a polymer modified asphalt binder),
specifically graded aggregate, A36 mild steel plate and heat resistant backer
rod. When installed properly and according to DSAs specifications, Thorma-Joint
is capable of withstanding up to 2 of cumulative movement and providing a water
tight seal to protect the bridge deck and sub structure.

Why Thorma-Joint?

Resistant to puncture by foreign objects

Will not work its way out of joint cavity

Uses no metal armors that may come loose and endanger driver safety

Watertight and smooth riding

Requires no maintenance

Highly durable and proven track record

Dynamic Surface Applications,

Ltd.
373 Village Road
Pennsdale, PA 17756
800-491-5663
www.dsa-ltd.com

Only product of its kind guaranteed by manufacturer for 3 years

Installed in the United States since 1989 and throughout the world since the late 1970s

Quality controlled installation by DSA or factory trained certified installers

All materials independently tested to ASTM D6297-01 standards

TECHNICAL DETAILS
Backer Rod

Aggregate
The stone used shall primarily consist of Granite, Basalt, Gabbro,
Porphyry or Gritstones. The specified aggregate shall be crushed,
double washed, and shall meet the following gradation requirements:
GRADATION

The backer rod shall be a closed cell, foam expansion joint filler,
capable of withstanding the elevated temperature of the polymeric
binder. The backer rod shall have the following typical physical
properties using a 2 specimen and test method ASTM D545:
Density:

2.0Lbs/Cu.Ft, min

Tensile Strength:

30 psi, min.
5 psi @ 25%, min

Sieve Size

Percent Passing

7/8

95-100

Compression:

5/8

40-60

Water Absorption:
weight, min

15-40

3/8

0-15

0-7

#8

0.03 g/cc by
(1% Max)

Temperature @ 410F (210C)

No Melting

BJ Super Binder
The bridge joint binder shall be a polymer modified asphalt, as manufactured by Dynamic Surface Applications, and shall meet the
following requirements as set forth is ASTM D6297-01 and when independently tested according to those standards.
TEST METHOD

TYPICAL VALUES

Cone Penetration @ 77F

ASTM D5/D3407

7.5 Max

Cone Penetration @ 0F,

ASTM D5/D3407

1.0 Minimum

Flow @ 140F, 5 Hours, (MM)

ASTM D3407

3.0 Max

Non-Immersed Bond @ 20F,

ASTM D3405

Pass 3 cycles

Resilience @ 77F

ASTM D3407

40-70

Asphalt Compatibility

ASTM D3407

Pass

Softening Point

ASTM D36

180 Minimum

Flexibility/Pliability @ -10F

ASTM D5329

Pass

Ductility @77 F

ASTM D113

400 Minimum

Tensile Adhesion @ 77F

ASTM D5329

700 Minimum

Three Cycles

Recommended Pouring Temperature

390 F (199 C)

Safe Heating Temperature

410 F (210 C)