The use of recycled concrete aggregates in Portland cement concrete and granular road base or sub-base works has increased steadily all over the world in order to conserve the limited natural aggregate deposits. The recycling of the demolished concrete aggregate for the use in concrete or granular pavement works will not only help to protect the environment but also an economical benefit to the user. The main drawback for the bulk utilization of demolished or recycled aggregate is its characterization and proper quality control during its production. The overall objective of this research was to characterize recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) obtained from a demolished foundation structure and to determine its suitability for Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) works and use as a granular road base or sub-base material. Tests were carried out on RCA samples to determine whether it meets the specification for concrete aggregate material or a granular road base and sub-base materials. Several concrete mixes consisting of 10, 20, 30, 40, 60, and 80 % replacement of natural coarse aggregates (NCA) with RCA were prepared and tested for compressive strength after curing periods of 7, 14, and 28 days. The compressive strength of concrete made with various percentages of RCA decreased with increasing RCA content but it increased with curing period for all concrete mixes. The durability parameters of the natural aggregates and RCA samples were investigated by using sulfate soundness, rapid freeze-thaw and micro-deval tests to ascertain their chemical and abrasive resistance. The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of RCA base was also compared with that of a natural road base material to determine its suitability for road base or sub-base works. In this study, the flakiness and elongation indices of the RCA were found to be better than that of conventional natural aggregates. The RCA base material had lower maximum dry density, higher optimum moisture content, and low California Bearing Ratio (CBR) value compared to the natural crushed rock base (NCRB) material but was found to be a relatively good road base material.

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has fully implemented the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide for pavement design but has been using primarily level-three design inputs obtained from correlations to aggregate base materials developed at the national level. UDOT was interested in investigating correlations between laboratory measurements of resilient modulus, California bearing ratio (CBR), and other material properties specific to base materials commonly used in Utah; therefore, a statewide testing program was needed. The objectives of this research were to 1) determine the resilient modulus of several representative aggregate base materials in Utah and 2) investigate correlations between laboratory measurements of resilient modulus, CBR, and other properties of the tested materials. Two aggregate base materials were obtained from each of the four UDOT regions. Important material properties, including particle-size distribution, soil classification, and the moisture-density relationship, were investigated for each of the sampled aggregate base materials. The CBR and resilient modulus of each aggregate base material were determined in general accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials D1883 and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials T 307, respectively. After all of the data were collected, several existing models were evaluated to determine if one or more of them could be used to predict the resilient modulus values measured in this research. Statistical analyses were also performed to investigate correlations between measurements of resilient modulus, CBR, and other properties of the tested aggregate base materials, mainly including aspects of the particle-size distributions and moisture-density relationships. A set of independent predictor variables was analyzed using both stepwise regression and best subset analysis to develop a model for predicting resilient modulus. After a suitable model was developed, it was analyzed to determine the sensitivity of the model coefficients to the individual data points. For the aggregate base materials tested in this research, the average resilient modulus varied from 16.0 to 25.6 ksi. Regarding the correlation between resilient modulus and CBR, the test results show that resilient modulus and CBR are not correlated for the materials tested in this research. Therefore, a new model was developed to predict the resilient modulus based on the percent passing the No. 200 sieve, particle diameter corresponding to 30 percent finer, optimum moisture content, maximum dry density (MDD), and ratio of dry density to MDD. Although the equation may not be applicable for values outside the ranges of the predictor variables used to develop it, it is expected to provide UDOT with reasonable estimates of resilient modulus values for aggregate base materials similar to those tested in this research.

In the mechanistic design approach, which has already been started to utilize in several countries, the variations in material properties are better taken into account based on fundemental engineering principles. Resilient modulus is the most important material property that is used in the mechanistic design since it describes the true martial performance of unbound pavement layers under traffic loading. In this thesis, the objective is to determine the resilient modulus, used in the mechanistic design of pavement structures, for the unbound material types used in Turkey and develop linear and nonlinear prediction models to determine resilient response of unbound layers based on soil index properties, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Light Falling Weight Deflectometer (LFWD) test results. Application of genetic algorithm and curve shifting methodology to estimate design resilient modulus at various stress states is also investigated using the test results for finegrained soils. Resilient modulus estimation for a constant stress state based on genetic algorithm and curve shifting methodolgy is quite promising for fine-grained soils since nonlinear constitutive models do not have the capability of representing resilient responses under different conditions. Furthermore, tree-based modeling is discussed as an alternative way to develop resilient modulus prediction models. The outcome of the study will be a basis for the performance based design specifications of flexible pavements.

The Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) which is widely used for the rational design of pavements has three different design levels (i.e., Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3) that are typically based on the resources and the level of risk associated for a given project. Specifically, Level 2 design requires the estimation of the resilient modulus, MR (which is the key parameter in the mechanistic design procedures) from simple experiments such as the California Bearing Ratio (CBR), Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and R-value tests. In this study, a technique is proposed for estimation of MR from CBR that can be used in Level 2 designs of pavements. The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is a relatively inexpensive laboratory test which provides a measure of the strength of a soil. The CBR test can easily be performed as the experimental procedure is relatively straightforward to execute. The CBR test procedure widely used and is simple, however the fundamental engineering principles governing CBR tests do not realistically describe the mechanical behavior of pavements. Due to this reason, there has been a significant interest to design pavements using a mechanistic approach such as the resilient modulus (MR). The MR test method provides an indication of the stiffness of pavement materials under cyclic loads, which closely represents the typical loading conditions that are experienced by pavements. MR is a reliable method as it considers the cyclic loading (i.e., resilient response) of pavements. However, it has one major drawback as the triaxial testing equipment used for measurement of the MR is relatively costly, testing is complex and requires trained professional to perform them. The CBR and MR are both used in present day practice to evaluate the strength of pavement materials. However, the CBR is widely used because of its relatively low cost and the vast experience with its use in the design of pavements. The common trend in today’s practice is to estimate the MR from CBR as evident in most pavement design procedures used around the world. For instance, the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (AASHTO 2008) suggests that the MR may be estimated from standard tests like the CBR for design of Level 2 pavements. Numerous studies in the literature propose relationships between CBR and MR, but only a hand full of these studies takes account of the effect of matric suction, 𝜓 which is a key stress state variable that describes the rational behavior of unsaturated soils. This thesis document includes the explanation of a modified CBR test equipment capable of measuring unsaturated properties (𝜓 and water content) of specimens subjected to wetting and drying. In addition, some correlations were developed using the measured CBR data and the data of MR from other studies. The results provide useful information for Level 2 mechanistic-empirical design of pavement structures for various soils in the province of Ontario.

ABSTRACT IMPROVEMENT OF BEARING CAPACITY OF A SOFT SOIL BY THE ADDITION OF FLY ASH &Ouml / ZDEMIR, Murat Aziz M.Sc., Department of Civil Engineering Supervisor : Prof. Dr. Erdal &Ccedil / OK&Ccedil / A Co-Supervisor : Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat G&Uuml / LER May 2011, 119 pages Soft soils are not suitable for use in runway and highway construction due to their undesirable characteristics such as poor grading, low strength, excessive plasticity, tendency to shrink or swell. By stabilizing such soils with appropriate agents, their engineering properties can be improved. One of the stabilizing agents is Class C fly ash. This study aimed at investigation of bearing capacity improvement of a soft soil (from Elmadag area) by using Class C fly ash (from Soma Thermal Power Plant). In the experimental study, index properties of soft soil and fly ash stabilized samples are determined. Then modified Proctor compaction, soaked California Bearing Ratio, and Unconfined Compressive Strength characteristics of the samples are investigated. During the study, the stabilized soil samples are prepared at different fly ash contents, i.e., 0%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 10%. The samples are subjected to soaked California Bearing Ratio tests after 0, 7, and 28 days of curing. In addition to California Bearing Ratio tests, Unconfined Compressive Strength tests with 0, 7, and 28 days of curing are performed samples. For comparison purpose, hydrated lime is also used instead of fly ash in Unconfined Compressive Strength tests at predetermined contents, i.e., 3%, 5%, and 7%. In order to observe microstructures of samples, Scanning Electron Microscope - Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis are performed. The results of the study show that bearing capacity of Elmadag soft soil can be improved substantially and swell can be reduced significantly by using Class C fly ash.

Made available in DSpace on 2016-12-08T17:19:15Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Capa - Introducao.pdf: 278813 bytes, checksum: 67c088e26fd453a870f20d39f1092ef4 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2011-12-16 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / Looking for the sustainability of the construction sector, many countries are trying to find options to minimize the problems of solid waste generation in construction. This research addresses the use of construction and demolition waste as pavement base for low-traffic routes. Also, aims to enter this sub-product for construction of roads with lower carrying capacity, in Joinville, Santa Catarina State. Recycling construction and demolition waste, can help to eliminate a problem and, favor the generation of low cost and good quality materials On the other hand, inadequate deposition causes siltation of rivers and streams and clogs storm drains and galleries, contributing to flooding. To ensure the feasibility of using this waste, we evaluated the carrying capacity of the materials commonly used as pavement base in Joinville and compared with the carrying capacity obtained by the construction and demolition waste by testing California Support Index. They are also submitted to analysis of liquidity and limits of plasticity, and particle size characterization of the sample, which can ensure the viability of recycled aggregate for subgrade reinforcement and sub-base layers of paving. / Visando a sustentabilidade do setor construtivo, diversos países vêm tentando encontrar alternativas para minimização dos problemas decorrentes da geração de resíduos sólidos na construção civil. Este trabalho aborda o emprego do resíduo de construção e demolição como base de pavimentação para vias de baixo tráfego e tem como objetivo inserir este subproduto na construção de vias com baixa capacidade de suporte no município de Joinville-SC. A reciclagem do resíduo de construção e demolição, além de eliminar um problema, pode favorecer a geração de materiais de baixo custo e de boa qualidade. Por outro lado, sua deposição inadequada provoca assoreamento de rios e córregos e entupimento de galerias e bueiros, contribuindo para as enchentes. Para garantir a viabilidade de utilização deste resíduo, avaliou-se a capacidade de suporte dos materiais comumente utilizados como base de pavimentação na região de Joinville e comparou-se com a capacidade de suporte obtida pelo resíduo de construção e demolição através do ensaio de Índice de Suporte Califórnia. Análises relacionadas aos limites de liquidez e de plasticidade e a caracterização granulométrica da amostra também foram realizadas, onde pode-se garantir a viabilidade do agregado reciclado para reforço de subleito e camadas de sub-base em pavimentação.

The thesis deals with the experimental determination of the resilient modulus using cyclic triaxial test with the selected unbound mixtures of the base course of the pavement. The aim is to verify whether the proposed modulus-resilient in the regulation TP 170 based on the statisticaly verified data dating several decades ago is still valid in the present. Furthermore, the thesis deals with the dependence between the measured and the calculated values of the modulus resilient Mr from the cyclic triaxial test and the California Bearing Ratio tests. For the classification of the selected materials, further tests are used in the thesis, such as granularity and compaction tests.

In the theoretical part of the thesis, different methods of testing frost susceptibility in the Czech Republic and other countries of the European Union are compared. The practical part of the thesis deals with laboratory testing of frost susceptibility of concrete and mixed recycled materials using the direct method of frost heave tests as well as determining the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and design module of elasticity using the cyclic triaxial test. Suitability of materials for construction of road infrastructure is then assessed on the basis of the results of these tests.

Efficient road network and connectivity play vital role in the development of any country. Majority of the rural roads are unpaved and connectivity of rural roads is always a major challenge. Unpaved roads are also used for temporary transportation facilities like access roads, haul roads for mines, forest roads and parking lots. Since these roads do not have asphalt surfacing, they are subjected to early failures due to distresses like rutting, pot holes and depressions . Stabilization of unpaved roads using geosynthetics has been proved to be promising in increasing the lifespan of these roads because they facilitate economical, aesthetic and effective design of the roads. Inclusion of geosynthetic layers at the interface of subgrade soil and granular sub-base, reduces the surface heave, ensures a better stress distribution and reduces the stresses transferred to the subgrade soil, as demonstrated by earlier researchers. Wide variety of geosynthetics like woven and nonwoven geotextiles, uniaxial and biaxial geogrids and geocells are used as reinforcement in road sections. Geotextiles improve the strength by interfacial friction, lateral restraint and membrane effect. Geogrids provide additional benefit of interlocking. Geocells are honeycomb shaped geosynthetic cellular confining systems filled with aggregates in which the reinforcement action is derived not only by friction and interlocking, but also by confinement. Load-deformation characteristics of reinforced soil-aggregate systems under static, repeated and cyclic loads is a potential topic of interest considering the fact that the design of geosynthetic reinforced unpaved roads is still under development and experimentation. The objective of the present study is to understand the beneficial use of geosynthetics in unpaved roads and to provide clear insight into the influence of geosynthetics on the cyclic loading characteristics of unpaved roads through laboratory experiments. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests were carried out on unreinforced and reinforced soil-aggregate systems to study the effect of various parameters such as type of reinforcement, form of reinforcement, quantity of reinforcement, and water content of the subgrade soil on the load-penetration response of the various systems. Modified CBR tests were also carried out to understand the influence of boundary of the mould and anchorage of reinforcement on the behavior of reinforced soil-aggregate systems. Behavior of unreinforced and reinforced soil-aggregate systems under repeated and cyclic loading is also studied to understand the resilience of the composite systems. From the measured stress-strain response, the elastic and plastic strains developed in various systems are compared. Different moduli such as secant modulus, cyclic modulus and resilient modulus are computed for different systems and compared. To investigate the effectiveness of geosynthetics in improving the load - bearing capacity, repeated load tests were carried out on model sections of unpaved road constructed in a steel test tank of size 750 mm × 750 mm × 620 mm. The effect of various parameters like the form of reinforcement, quantity of reinforcement, height of geocell layer and the position of geocell layer on the load-deformation behaviour of the unpaved model road sections was studied. Static and cyclic triaxial tests were carried out on unreinforced and reinforced granular sub-base materials to understand their stress strain behavior under static and cyclic loading conditions. The influence of quantity and form of reinforcement on the stress-strain behaviour of these materials was studied. From the studies it is observed that the use of reinforcement increases the CBR value of the soil-aggregate systems. Studies with two different sizes of CBR moulds indicated that the boundary effect in the standard CBR mould leads to the overestimation of the CBR value, resulting in unconservative design of road sections. Providing anchorage to the reinforcement in CBR tests did not produce an appreciable change in the load-penetration behavior. From the repeated load tests it was observed that the reinforced systems did not show any improvement in the load-deformation behaviour at low levels of rut depth. At higher rut depths, the reinforced systems developed less plastic settlements and more elastic settlements and low resilient modulus compared to unreinforced systems. From the model tests on unpaved road sections, it was observed that the improvement in the cyclic load resistance of the road due to the inclusion of geocell layer depends on the height of the geocell layer and its position. Increasing the height of geocell layer resulted in improved performance up to certain height of the geocell layer, beyond which, further increase in the height reduced the load resistance because of the inadequate granular overlay thickness and inadequate compaction of aggregate within the geocell pockets. Static and cyclic triaxial tests showed that the geogrid and geocell reinforced granular sub-base material sustained higher peak stresses and exhibited increase in modulus compared to the unreinforced specimens. Results of element and model tests carried out in this study gave important insight into the load-deformation characteristics of reinforced soil-aggregate systems under static, repeated and dynamic loads. The results provide guidelines regarding the selection of type, quantity and configuration of geosynthetic reinforcement while designing unpaved roads and the expected performance of these reinforced unpaved roads.

The work deals with the use of mixed construction recycled material for earth bodies of roads. The theoretical part describes the production, usability and economic evaluation of recycled building materials against common natural materials. It then describes the necessary laboratory tests that examine its properties for the use of these materials in roads. In the last chapter, the work deals with foreign experience with the use of mixed construction recyclates for transport construction. The practical part examines the properties of the given recyclates for their use in the core using tests of soil freezing rate, California bearing ratio and immediate bearing index.