Evaluation of the Long-Term Performance and Benefit of Using an Enhanced Micro-Milling Resurfacing Method

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has applied the environmentally friendly and cost-effective pavement preservation method, micro-milling and thin overlay, to Georgia’s interstate highways since 2007. The objectives of this project were to critically assess the long-term performance of micro-milling and thin overlay and to quantitatively evaluate its economic and environmental benefits by conducting life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and life-cycle analysis (LCA). GDOT’s projects on I-75, I-95, and I-285 were analyzed in the study. As an alternative, the conventional milling and overlay (“conventional method”) was used for comparison. Results showed that the micro-milling and thin overlay method has 10-12 years of expected service life. It is comparable to the conventional method but reduces the costs by $65,600 per lane mile compared with the conventional method. The study also showed that micro-milling and thin overlay is a good crack relief treatment. In addition, it produces fewer greenhouse gases, and uses less water and energy than the conventional method. Overall, micro-milling and thin overlay is a promising, sustainable pavement preservation method that will save money for transportation agencies if it is applied adequately on the pavements with sound structural conditions.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Digital/other
  • Edition: Final Report
  • Features: Appendices; Figures; Maps; Photos; References; Tables;
  • Pagination: 112p

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01704678
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA-GA-18-1320, Report No. 13-20
  • Contract Numbers: PI#0011825
  • Files: NTL, TRIS, ATRI, USDOT, STATEDOT
  • Created Date: May 15 2019 6:40PM