Recommended Citation
Becker, P. J. (2021). Using the light weight deflectometer for performance-based quality assurance testing of cement modified subgrades (Joint Transportation Research Program Publication No. FHWA/IN/JTRP-2021/07). West Lafayette, IN: Purdue University. https://doi.org/10.5703/1288284317304
DOI
10.5703/1288284317304
Abstract
This report documents the findings from SPR-4230 (Alternative Quality Assurance Methods for Compacted Subgrade). The main objective of SPR-4230 involved establishing performance-related quality assurance (QA) test methods for pavement subgrade construction. Because INDOT generally prefers specifying subgrade treatment type IBC (i.e., 14-in. cement modified subgrade), this study focused on performance-based QA test methods for constructing cement modified subgrade. Moreover, INDOT prefers using light weight deflectometer (LWD) for chemically modified subgrade construction acceptance, so this study aimed to use LWD deflection measurements as performance-related construction acceptance criteria. A laboratory study was performed to relate LWD deflections with resilient modulus that is the key subgrade performance-related parameter in pavement design. In addition, LWD deflections were related with unconfined compressive strength increase that is the key parameter in chemical soil modification mix design. A rigorous field study consisting of LWD testing and falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing at INDOT new pavement construction sites was conducted to verify the laboratory developed relationship. Recommendations for implementing results of this study into cement modified subgrade construction acceptance is provided, as are recommendations for future research.
Report Number
FHWA/IN/JTRP-2021/07
Keywords
soil stabilization, subgrade (pavements), quality assurance, deflectometers, specifications
SPR Number
4230
Performing Organization
Joint Transportation Research Program
Sponsoring Organization
Indiana Department of Transportation
Publisher Place
West Lafayette, IN
Date of this Version
2021