Low-Cost Rural Surface Alternatives

Project Details
STATUS

Completed

PROJECT NUMBER

11-402, TR-632

START DATE

06/01/11

END DATE

12/31/13

RESEARCH CENTERS InTrans, CEER, CTRE
SPONSORS

Iowa Highway Research Board

Researchers
Principal Investigator
Pavana Vennapusa
Principal Investigator
David White

About the research

Freezing/thawing action induces physical changes to granular surface road that can negatively impact public users, reduce emergency responder access/time, and results in increased maintenance costs for secondary road departments.  Stabilization can work to mitigate soft and eroded conditions of granular roads, but although technically feasible, can it be done economically?  The comprehensive literature review conducted during this phase of the research will address both the technical and economical aspects of stabilization for granular surfaced roadways with consideration of mature methods and emerging methods that show promise.

The proposed objectives of this research project are as follows:

  • Conduct a comprehensive literature survey of the state of practice for granular surface road construction  with respect to freeze/thaw damage resistance
  • Develop recommendations with respect to conducting a phase 2 study to demonstrate various technologies.
Frost broil on a low volume road in Boone County (April 2011)
Low volume gravel surfaced road in Hamilton County (September 2011)
Rutting on a an emulsified oil stabilized gravel road surfaced with chip seal coat

 

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