Performance of Concrete Pavements Containing Recycled Concrete Aggregate

Abstract

DTFH61-93-C-00133This interim report documents the field performance of nine concrete pavement projects that incorporate recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) in the construction of the pavement. Multiple sections were evaluated on many of the nine projects, due to perceived differences in performance levels or variations in pavement design (such as the use of virgin aggregate or the inclusion of dowel bars). All told, a total of 17 sections (of which 12 contain RCA) were subjected to an extensive field testing program, consisting of pavement condition surveys, drainage surveys, falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing, coring, and serviceability assessments. A minimum of eight cores were retrieved from each section for laboratory evaluation of compressive strength, split tensile strength, dynamic elastic modulus, static elastic modulus, and thermal coefficient of expansion, as well as for volumetric surface testing and petrographic analyses. Each of the 17 sections included in the investigation is described in detail. Performance observations and results from the FWD and laboratory testing are presented, with emphasis on evaluating the effect of RCA on pavement performance. An overall summary is provided that synthesizes the findings and conclusions of the field testing program. A laboratory-based research effort is currently being planned to provide additional insight on the behavior of concrete mixtures using RCA. Those laboratory-based results, taken in conjunction with the results of the field testing program, will be used to produce guidelines for the design of recycled concrete mixtures and to develop recommendations for the design of concrete pavements using RCA