Full-depth reclamation (FDR) with cement can extend pavement life cost effectively, according to a new Portland Cement Association (PCA) study. Though
Full-depth reclamation (FDR) with cement can extend pavement life cost effectively, according to a new Portland Cement Association (PCA) study. Though FDR has been used on pavement projects for more than two decades, an extended study of its performance had not been completed until recent PCA research examined long-term strength and durability of more than 75 projects in eight states. The analysis observed no cases where the reclaimed cement-stabilized base led to severe road distress.
Each road was evaluated using a pavement condition index that rated the type, extent, and severity of damage. For FDR projects, the average range was 88 to 97 percent, indicating excellent performance.
FDR with cement is a procedure involving in-place pulverization and reclamation of failed asphalt pavements, using cement to stabilize the recycled materials and create a new pavement base. The cement-stabilized base is then surfaced to provide a new, long-lasting pavement structure. As state, county, and city highway agencies discover that the process costs 30 to 60 percent less than conventional reconstruction methods Û and can be completed faster and with less traffic disruption Û the procedure is becoming more widespread.
The economics of the FDR with cement process has helped highway agencies reconstruct 50 to 100 percent more projects than with conventional construction methods, reports Greg Halsted, PCA’s pavement program manager. FDR is a good fit for public officials looking for ways to stretch their road maintenance dollars.
Additionally, FDR is an environmentally sound construction method. Because it recycles old pavement into new base, it conserves natural resources and the energy required for a Îremove and replaceÌ construction technique.
The complete research report is available as Full-Depth Reclamation with Portland Cement: A Study of Long-Term Performance. Orders can be placed or more information obtained by visiting the PCA Bookstore at www.cement.org/bookstore; or calling 800/868-6733. Also available (at www.cement.org/newsroom/EB234_112707.asp) is PCA’s recently released Guide to Full-Depth Reclamation, a step-by-step guide detailing the process from initial site investigation, to mix design, and construction.