Performance of Interstate Rubblization in Illinois

US Transportation Collectionhttps://doi.org/10.36501/0197-9191/21-0052021PDFTech ReportLippert, David L.Thompson, Marshall R.Wienrank, Charles J.Illinois Center for TransportationUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Department of Civil and Environmental EngineeringIllinois. Dept. of Transportation. Bureau of ResearchUnited States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway AdministrationIllinois Center for TransportationIllinoisUnited StatesRehabilitation (Maintenance)Hot mix asphaltPavement performanceRuttingConstructionEnvironmentMaterialsTestingComminutionMaterials adaptation and usePerimeter BarrierRubblizationFHWA-ICT-21-005R27-193-2Interim Report 7/16/18\u20137/15/21In Illinois, hot-mix asphalt overlaid concrete pavements typically exhibit reflective cracking of joints and cracks from the pavement below, resulting in shortened life and maintenance issues. Over the years, various patching, fabric, and crack and seat techniques were attempted with few positive results. This led to more aggressive techniques to eliminate the slab action of the concrete pavement where the pavement would be broken or rubblized into pieces typically less than 12 inches. Since the first rubblizing project in 1990, policy, procedures, and specifications have evolved to the point that rubblization is the mainstream option in dealing with problematic concrete pavements. This report summarizes the performance of several interstate rubblizing projects in Illinois by analyzing available data in Illinois Department of Transportation\u2019s pavement management system. Condition rating survey data allowed the serviceability of these projects to be evaluated by surface mix types and asphalt performance grades. Traffic in the form of 18,000 lb equivalent single axle loads was determined for the projects to evaluate fatigue and rutting as well as compare section performance to the design procedure. The research team reviewed plans, design procedures, and specifications to determine best practices and identify where improvements might be made. Data showed that the use of stone matrix asphalt surface mixtures and mixes using PGXX-28 asphalt binders provides improved performance. Overall, rubblizing has shown good to excellent performance. To provide additional life with improved performance, recommendations include adopting softer asphalt grades, increasing the use of stone matrix asphalt, and improving procedures for protecting culverts.120