MPC
Research Projects (2002-03)

Identifying Number

MPC-223

Project Title

Evaluating the Impact of DOT's QC/QA Programs on Pavement Performance, Year 2

University

University of Wyoming

Project Investigator

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

External Project Contact

Vicki Bond
Wyoming Department of Transportation

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

• Task 1 – Contact DOTs in the Region 8 to obtain information about their QC/QA programs.
• Task 2 – Select pavement test sections to be included in the experiment from a couple of DOTs other than WYDOT in Region 8.
• Task 3 – Obtain detailed data on the test sections.
• Task 4 – Perform statistical analysis on the data collected.
• Task 5 – Compare the QC/QA practices of DOTs in Region 8.
• Task 6 – Compare the variations of QC/QA data from the selected DOTs in Region 8.
• Task 7 – Deliver a final MPC report summarizing the findings of the study.
• Task 8 – Submit a TRB technical paper.

Milestones, Dates

• Starting Date: July 1, 2002
• Project Milestones:
  • Finishing the Analysis: May 31, 2003
  • Deliver a final MPC report: June 30, 2003
  • Submit a TRB Paper: August 1, 2003
• Ending Date: June 30, 2003

Yearly and Total Budget

$139,235

Student Involvement

One graduate student; one undergraduate student

Relationship to Other Research Projects

The national survey performed in the first year of this project will help in focusing the tasks of the second year.

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, QC/QA