Performance Engineered Mixtures for Airfield Pavements

Project dates: April 1, 2022 – December 31, 2025

Research team: Oklahoma State University, PI: Tyler Ley; Jason Weiss, Nichols Consulting, Applied Pavement Technology, UNC-Charlotte

The ACPTP-2021-2 project develops a performance-engineered mixture (PEM) framework for slipformed airfield pavements. The following are key takeaways from the project:

• The laboratory program included the FAA Box, Quake, Phoenix w/cm, and Crater tests and standard tests for slump, air content, unit weight, resistivity, and strength.
• Correlations between these laboratory tests and field performance led to acceptance thresholds for recommended test methods.
• New recommendations for combined aggregate gradation and fine sand limits for the Airfield Tarantula Curve are recommended.
• A procedure is outlined for using electrical resistivity measurements to evaluate the long-term durability of concrete mixtures.
• Additional guidance is provided on “resetting” the approved mixture design from the laboratory-developed mixture design to the final mixture design used to construct the test strip.

Best Practices for Rapid Repair, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction of Concrete Airport Pavements

Project dates: March 1, 2022 – November 30, 2025

Research team: Applied Research Associates (ARA), PI: Scott Murrell; Senseney Engineering, Kiewit Engineering Group

The ACPTP-2021-3 project details guidance on the use of Rapid Repair Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Rapid 3R) methods and materials for airport sponsors, the FAA, and the engineer of record. As an initial effort in this study, a literature review on existing Rapid 3R efforts was conducted and a summary of the review is included in the report. Detailed data on Rapid 3R projects was then obtained from 16 airports for use in analyzing the employment of Rapid 3R, including plans, specifications, performance, QA/QC, mix design, photos, and presentations. Insights from site visits and case studies conducted for 7 of these airports are presented. Additionally, detailed performance data of rapid repairs was compared to equivalent conventional concrete sections for 2 airports. Best practices are provided for Rapid 3R use, planning, design, and construction, along with recommended updates for several FAA Advisory Circulars, as well as the FAARFIELD and PAVEAIR software.

Final Report: Quality Control and Quality Acceptance of Airport Pavement

Best Practices Manual: Quality Control and Quality Acceptance of Airport Pavement

Project dates: August 1, 2022 – December 31, 2025

Research team: University of North Carolina-Charlotte, PI: Tara Cavalline; Square One Pavement Consulting, Nichols Consulting Engineers, Hi-Way Paving, Doug Johnson; Tigerbrain Engineering

The report and the accompanying guidance materials developed as part of ACPTP-2022-4, Quality Control and Quality Acceptance of Concrete Airport Pavement, seek to improve airfield concrete pavement quality by providing a renewed focus on airport construction quality management (QM) systems. A best practices manual, a model contractor quality control program (CQCP), and associated training materials were prepared using a holistic approach that includes an overview of quality systems and goals, ways to promote a culture of quality, and the “nuts and bolts” of quality control (QC), quality assurance (QA), process control, testing, and inspection. The manual addresses the role of quality throughout a project, from material selection and mixture development to construction and acceptance.

Best Practices for Airport Runway Rubber Removal

Project dates: February 1, 2023 – December 31, 2025

Research team: Applied Research Associates, PI: Aaron Pullen; Jim Hall, Consultant; Pam Phillips, Consultant

The ACPTP-2022-5 project report presents the findings of a comprehensive study on best practices for runway rubber removal at airports. The research combined a literature review, surveys of 30 U.S. airports, site visits to 9 representative facilities, and statistical analysis of operational and damage data to evaluate current practices, performance, and challenges associated with rubber removal operations. Three primary methods were identified: high-pressure waterblasting, chemical-only removal, and combination (chemical plus waterblasting), with waterblasting being the most prevalent. Findings from field observations and stakeholder engagement underscore the importance of proper equipment calibration, operator training, environmental compliance, and maintenance planning. The report culminates in a set of Best Practice Guidelines, provided in Appendix A, offering actionable recommendations to improve the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of runway rubber removal operations.

Effects of Diamond Grinding on Airfield Pavements

Project dates: February 1, 2023 – December 31, 2025

Research team: Nichols Consulting Engineers, PI: Jeff Stempihar; Wiss, Janey, Elstner Associates; Applied Pavement Technologies

ACPTP-2022-6 site visits and stakeholder interviews revealed that diamond ground surfaces (ranging in age from less than 1 to greater than 30 years) have generally performed well, retaining texture and not generating foreign object debris (FOD). When done correctly, grinding is a viable treatment for airfield concrete pavements. It is most effective when performed on “good quality” concrete—pavements that are durable, structurally adequate, and have appropriate distress levels for grinding treatment.

The report covers all aspects of diamond grinding airfield concrete pavements, including planning, design, and construction, with detailed emphasis on proper applications and selecting candidate pavements with attributes favorable to successful grinding outcomes. Supporting information was gathered from a literature review, project records, stakeholder interviews, and site visits to 12 airports in the United States and one airport in Canada. Detailed case studies are provided to highlight diamond ground airfield concrete pavements.