Title: Forensic evaluation of multiple cracking of a concrete test cell built over an open graded aggregate base

Authors: Bernard Igbafen Izevbekhai; David A. Van Deusen

Addresses: Minnesota Department of Transportation, Office of Materials & Roads Research, 1400 Gervais Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55109, USA ' Minnesota Department of Transportation, Office of Materials & Roads Research, 1400 Gervais Avenue, Maplewood, MN 55109, USA

Abstract: In August 2011 a test cell of 6 inch thick concrete surfacing placed over of special open graded Limestone aggregate base predominantly 8 inches (203 mm) thick was constructed at the MnROAD research facility. The two layers overlaid an existing 6 inch (150 mm) of MnDOT non-drainable aggregate base that overlaid a clay/silt sub-grade. In July 2012, an extensive cracking pattern was observed. This paper discusses data analysis, semi-destructive testing investigations and design re-examination to ascertain cause(s) of the premature distress. The litany of test results suggested possible loss of support from the special Open Graded Aggregate Base (OGAB).

Keywords: special OGAB; multiple cracking; concrete surfacing; OGAB test cell; open graded aggregate base; drainability; gradation change; IRI; International Roughness Index; forensic evaluation; forensic engineering; limestone aggregate base; early failure.

DOI: 10.1504/IJFE.2015.067690

International Journal of Forensic Engineering, 2015 Vol.2 No.3, pp.189 - 208

Received: 01 Mar 2014
Accepted: 12 Nov 2014
Published online: 25 Feb 2015 *

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