THE EFFECT OF COARSE-AGGREGATE TYPE ON CRCP THICKNESS

The effect of coarse-aggregate type on CRCP performance is analyzed in this report by using laboratory data and condition survey information in conjunction with design equations and a distress-prediction model for CRCP. Three different approaches were followed to estimate thickness equivalencies for continuously reinforced concrete pavements constructed with the two coarse aggregates most commonly available in Texas: crushed limestone and siliceous river gravel. The first approach is based on the AASHTO equation for design of rigid pavements, which can also be used for jointed concrete pavements. The second and third methods rely on models developed through statistical analyses of CRCP condition survey data collected in the State of Texas. Condition survey information shows that, for similar conditions, limestone CRC pavements exhibit less distress than CRCP pavements constructed with siliceous river gravel. A similar observation was made for thickness equivalencies obtained; i.e., less slab thickness than siliceous river gravel. Findings developed herein could be used to determine approximate equivalent thicknesses for the two aggregate types considered in this study if there is no need for a detailed analysis. Additionally, by using the recommended thickness equivalencies, the contractor could have enough information to estimate costs of construction of a CRCP section when he is allowed to employ either limestone or siliceous river gravel coarse aggregate. Examples for the application of equivalent thicknesses are provided in order to facilitate the implementation of the results of the various analyses carried out in this report. (FHWA)

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Study conducted in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration, Research Study Title: Implementation of Rigid Pavement Overlay and Design System.
• Corporate Authors:

  Texas Transportation Institute

  Texas A&M University System, 1600 E Lamar Boulevard
  Arlington, TX  United States  76011

  Texas State Department of Highways & Public Transportation

  Transportation Planning Division, P.O. Box 5051
  Austin, TX  United States  78763

  Federal Highway Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Torres-Verdin, V
  • McCullough, B F
  • Peck, G B
• Publication Date: 1983-11

Media Info

• Pagination: 77 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Alternatives analysis; Coarse aggregates; Continuously reinforced concrete pavements; Costs; Crushed limestone; Defects; Design; Gravel; Pavement distress; Pavements; Silicates; Thickness
• Uncontrolled Terms: Pavement thickness
• Old TRIS Terms: Design costs
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Design; Finance; Geotechnology; Highways; Pavements; I22: Design of Pavements, Railways and Guideways; I36: Aggregates;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00390269
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: FHWA-TX-84-47+249-7 Intrm Rpt.
• Contract Numbers: 3-8-79-249
• Files: TRIS, USDOT, STATEDOT
• Created Date: Dec 30 1984 12:00AM