In 2015, Milan, Italy hosted Expo 2015, a universal exposition in which participating countries were invited to showcase their own individual achievements. The theme of the expo was “feeding the planet, energy for life,” and contributions to this theme focused on food and how technology, culture, tradition, and creativity is related to food security.
One of the most iconic structures introduced for Expo 2015 was the Milan Expo Bridge, a cable-stayed structure that features a series of striking arches. Designed by Citterio Milano Patricia Viel and Partners, the Milan Expo Bridge provided easier access to the Expo and seamlessly integrated the local area of Milan into the Exhibition Center in Rho-Pero. The bridge successfully connected the 3-lane A4 and the 5-lane A8 motorways, which receive an average of 120,000-150,000 automobiles daily. Additionally, LED lighting was incorporated into the bridge's design, brilliantly illuminating the final product. The overall design provides structural and aesthetic functionality, as the bridge not only organically fits into the image of Expo 2015, but it also serves as a point of accessibility.
When taking on infrastructure projects of this magnitude, it is crucial to specify products that have a long lifespan. Low maintenance was key, as the bridge is located on two extremely busy highways. For the bridge, Innoventions of Milan applied 20 different shades of gray that had been enriched with Lumiflon FEVE resin. The Lumiflon FEVE resin technology in the Milan Expo Bridge's coatings is formulated to ensure that the bridge's coatings will remain intact. FEVE-based coatings are low-VOC and have exceptional weatherability, warding off elemental deterrents that contribute to coating degradation like UV radiation, salt, and water.
Photos courtesy of Antonio Citterio
Categories Bridges