MPC
Research Projects (2001-02)

Identifying Number

MPC-223

Project Title

Evaluating the Impact of DOT's QC/QA Programs on Pavement Performance

University

University of Wyoming

Project Investigator

Khaled Ksaibati
University of Wyoming
(307)766-6230
khaled@uwyo.edu

External Project Contact

Timothy Babbitt
Wyoming Dept. of Transportation
Materials Branch

Project Objective

Conduct applied research to evaluate the effect of QC/QA policies on pavement performance.

Project Abstract

Most Department of Transportation (DOTs) have developed and implemented various types of Quality Control/Quality Assurance (QC/QA) programs. Such programs require significant resources to be invested in testing before, during and after finishing the construction of pavement structures. The testing may include aggregate gradation, asphalt content, density of compacted mix, and smoothness of finished surface. The test results are normally utilized by DOTs to calculate the incentives/disincentives based on statistical evaluation and standard procedures. It is important after QC/QA programs have been in place for several years to determine their impact on the overall quality and long-term performance of pavements.

Task Descriptions

The following tasks will be performed in this project:

• Task 1 – Perform a comprehensive literature review on QC/QA programs.
• Task 2 – Perform a survey among DOT's in region 8 to obtain information on their QC/QA programs.
• Task 3 – Select pavement test sections to be included in the experiment from in cooperation with the Wyoming Department of Transportation.
• Task 4 – Obtain detailed data from the Wyoming Department of Transportation on the test sections.
• Task 5 – Perform statistical analysis on the data collected.
• Task 6 – Deliver a final MPC report summarizing the findings of the study
• Task 7 – Submit a TRB technical paper.

Milestones, Dates

• Starting Date: July 1, 2001
• Project Milestones:
  • Finishing the analysis: May 31, 2002
  • Deliver a Final MPC report: June 30, 2002
  • Submit a TRB paper: August 1, 2002
• Ending Date: June 30, 2002

Yearly and Total Budget

Federal: $57,613
Matching: $78,593

Student Involvement

One graduate student; One undergraduate student

Relationship to Other Research Projects

DOT's in Region 8 implemented their QC/QA programs recently. A survey will be done to determine if any DOT has done any similar research recently.

Technology Transfer Activities

Transportation Departments in region 8.

Potential Benefits of the Project

The results of this research can be used to determine the impact of QC/QA policies on the overall performance of pavements. In addition, the findings can justify the costs associated with QC/QA programs.

TRB Keywords

Pavement performance, quality control/quality assurance