2011 Construction Information

 

MnROAD 2011 Reconstruction and Repair of PCC Mainline Cells 5, 6, 63 & 96

 

Four test cells on the MnROAD Mainline were in need of reconstruction or substantial repairs in 2011. This opportunity allowed us to enhance the research program at MnROAD by evaluating and demonstrating the following materials and methods:

 

• the performance of three gradations to optimize paste content, workability, and durability;
• longitudinal tining as a quiet surface;
• the use of drainable, stable aggregate bases to enhance pavement life; and
• roller compacted concrete on the shoulders.

 

Also, a thin (5") unbonded concrete overaly using a non- woven geotextile interlayer was constructed on half a cell, and, repairs were made on a thin whitetopping cell to evaluate best practices to maintain concrete overlays.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stabilized Fullt Depth Reclamation on Cell 28

 

With budgets being stretched and local sources of pavement materials being depleted, reconstruction of low volume roadways is becoming difficult for local agencies to fund. Cheaper methods, such as the use of gravel material, have been adopted to try and alleviate these costs.

 

The construction on Cell 28 explored alternative methods of paving that are both renewable and relatively inexpensive in overall costs. The plan attempted to utilize in situ materials of the previous Cell 28 construction to repave the cell in a sustainable manner using 100% of the existing materials. The cell consisted of 100% recycled pavement that has no transportation costs, material costs, and relatively inexpensive operating costs providing for a better quality road. This cell has the potential to serve as a model for maintaining thousands of low volume road miles.

 

 

2011 Engineer's Weekly Updates

 

• August 1st, 2011 Weekly Update
• August 8th, 2011 Weekly Update
• August 15th, 2011 Weekly Update
• August 22nd, 2011 Weekly Update
• August 29th, 2011 Weekly Update