Heather A. McLeod
Published: 2012
Total Pages: 187
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Premature deterioration of concrete pavement due to D-Cracking has been a problem in Kansas since the 1930s. Limestone is the major source of coarse aggregate in eastern Kansas where the majority of the concrete pavements are constructed. D-Cracking field performance was investigated to determine whether aggregate freeze-thaw durability specifications implemented in the 1980s have reduced materials-related failures to an acceptable level. The results indicate that the failure rate has decreased, but not to an acceptable level. Limestone source material appears to be the dominant parameter affecting D-Cracking, while other design parameters, such as base type, joint sealant type, joint spacing, and joint orientation do not appear to significantly affect the presence of D-Cracking. Subsidiary aggregate-related reaction mechanisms were observed at locations with surface D-Cracking likely due to the increased amount of water penetration. The subsidiary reactions generally do not appear to be present at locations away from the D-Cracking. Kansas Department of Transportation policies (any actions, requirements, or decisions) that affect the risk of D-Cracking were reviewed. Recommendations included implementation of field performance criteria for aggregate material sources, improvement and unification of quarry monitoring and sampling procedures, to perform life-cycle cost analyses for various aggregate materials in concrete, and future monitoring of quarry field performance.