Since the onset of the full-scale war, Ukraine has faced tremendous challenges in restoring its damaged infrastructure. The conflict has left many buildings and structures suffering from mechanical, thermal, or combined damage, creating an urgent need for effective and rapid restoration. Restoring essential infrastructure is critical not only for daily life but also for the broader economic recovery of the nation.
One notable contributor to Ukraine's infrastructure recovery is an Italian company Mapei Ukraine with a robust history of handling large-scale construction projects. This company has significantly impacted the restoration of key bridges, reflecting its dedication to supporting critical infrastructure during these challenging times.
Among the notable projects is the Malyn Bridge in the Zhytomyr Region. This vital transport link was severely damaged by bombing on March 6, 2022.
Originally constructed in 1965, the 152-meter bridge spanned the Irsha River, linking a major road to Zhytomyr.
By 2023, through the collaborative efforts of Estonian and Ukrainian teams, the bridge has been fully restored. The comprehensive restoration involved overhauling the entire bridge structure. This included replacing the main beams, repairing existing support posts, and pouring a new monolithic slab foundation. Enhancements were also made to improve the bridge's functionality and safety, including widening to accommodate pedestrian and cyclist paths, installing new barriers, and upgrading lighting for better visibility.
For the waterproofing of the bridge, an advanced elastomeric-plastomeric polymer distilled bitumen waterproofing membrane was utilized. This material, known for its superior performance characteristics, features a blend of special polymers and anti-ageing additives, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to environmental stress.
Another significant project involved the restoration of a bridge near the Sviatohirsk Lavra, which suffered partial destruction due to hostilities on October 15, 2022.
The new bridge replicates the original in structure and technical specifications but includes several modern improvements. These enhancements feature pedestrian paths separated from the carriageway by high turnstiles, increased width for pedestrian safety, and the addition of charming old-style lanterns that enhance the bridge’s aesthetic appeal.
In this restoration effort, specialized strengthening systems were employed to improve the ductility and load-bearing capacity of structural elements such as pillars and beams. To prevent rust, a cementitious mortar with corrosion inhibitors was applied to the steel reinforcement. Additionally, a repair mortar was used for addressing degraded concrete surfaces, facilitating a swift and effective restoration of the bridge’s structural integrity without the need for complex machinery.
Drawing from extensive experience in post-earthquake reconstruction in Italy, the Italian company has effectively adapted its expertise to support Ukrainian reconstruction efforts. Its involvement spans from the early stages of the war to the present, playing a crucial role in the renovation of essential infrastructure, public buildings, residential complexes, and private homes throughout Ukraine. This ongoing support not only aids in immediate recovery but also contributes to the long-term rebuilding of affected communities.
