About the Project
Tasks
The research is divided into three major phases:
- Phase I: Data collection, test development, pilot projects, and technology transfer
- Phase II: Continue development of testing procedures, field demonstration projects, and "SWAT" teams
- Phase III: Technology transfer, implementation assistance
Phase I: Data collection, test development, pilot projects, and technology transfer
Task 1-1 Data collection
- Extensive searches of existing databases will not be a part of this research. FHWA Task 64 will conduct an extensive search and through cooperative efforts with this research, pertinent information will be incorporated.
- Each participating state will be surveyed to identify past projects where premature pavement cracking or deterioration has occurred. The data collected will identify the project, the problem, possible causes, and testing already conducted. This information will be used to help define the suite of tests so as to make sure such problems can be identified and avoided in the future.
- Field visits will be conducted with each state to discuss the problem projects identified in the survey and gather information on current practices, particularly those that may not be standard tests commonly in use.
Task 1-2 Test development
- Identify material and concrete tests that characterize properties of durable concrete.
- Develop standard test procedures for tests that may not have national standards. This would include testing frequencies.
- Develop new tests that are needed to characterize a concrete property that currently does not exist or is needed in a quick, field application.
Task 1-3 Pilot project
- A pilot project will be conducted in Iowa to afford a field trial of the initial tests development. The results will then be evaluated in light of the proposed testing scheme and any additions or revisions can be made before the demonstration projects are conducted in the other participating states.
- Acquire and equip a mobile laboratory trailer that can be brought to each state and used on site to perform the proposed tests.
Task 1-4 Technology transfer
Develop a Practices Manual that will be a user-friendly guide describing what testing should be conducted and why. It will incorporate the information gathered from the states in the data collection task.
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Phase II: Continue development of testing procedures, field demonstration projects, and "SWAT" teams
Task 2-1 Continue development of testing procedures
Development of procedures, researching newly discovered tests, and continued development of new tests will continue in this phase. Results of the field demonstration projects will be evaluated and incorporated.
Task 2-2 Field demonstration projects
The research team will conduct demonstration projects as shadow projects in each state using the initial guidelines. This will allow each state to understand the benefits of each test on their own materials and conditions. It will afford an opportunity for local engineers and technicians to perform the tests in a field application. These projects will provide field test data, which the research team will use to evaluate the suite of test for completeness and accuracy.
Task 2-3 "SWAT" Teams
The research team, along with others willing to assist this project, will be available to the participating states throughout the life of the project to assist them should a materials or construction related problem arise on a project currently under construction. This will not only provide assistance to the states, it will provide an opportunity to utilize the testing scheme being developed to determine its thoroughness and effectiveness in defining and predicting the cause of the problem.
Phase III: Technology transfer, implementation assistance
Task 3-1 Technology transfer
- A final report will be prepared that will incorporate the development of the suite of tests, the experience gained from the demonstration projects, and the other knowledge gained during the project.
- A Best Practices Manual for materials and construction optimization of concrete paving will be planned. This will be comprehensive yet usable by both engineers and technicians. It will include all aspects of concrete paving, from base considerations, materials identifications and compatibility, construction practices, and other performance issues.
Task 3-2 Implementation and training
Training and technology transfer materials will be prepared. The details
of the best media to use for this implementation and training effort will
be determined as the project progresses.
