MPC
Research Projects (2002-03)
Identifying Number
MPC-236
Project Title
Evaluation of Moisture Susceptibility of Asphalt Mixtures Containing Bottom Ash
University
University of WyomingProject Investigator
Khaled Ksaibati
University of Wyoming
(307)766-6230
khaled@uwyo.edu
Dr. Mengian Zeng
University of Wyoming
(307)766-2854
zeng@uwyo.edu
External Project Contact
Mr. James Murphy, President
CE & MT
P.O. Box 4098
Gillette, WY 82717-4098
Project Objective
Conduct applied research to evaluate the moisture susceptibility of bottom ash asphalt mixes.
Project Abstract
Bottom ash, a waste by-product from coal-fired power plants, has been utilized in paving applications. This utilization includes the use of bottom ash as part of the aggregate in asphalt mixtures. While it is well known that moisture has an effect on the performance of traditional asphalt mixtures, the moisture susceptibility of mixtures containing bottom ash remains unknown. In particular, the following questions need to be answered:
- What are the effects of moisture condition, freeze-thaw cycle, and low temperatures on the performance of mixtures with bottom ash?
- What are the appropriate amounts of bottom ash that can be added for satisfactory performance of the mixtures?
Task Descriptions
- Task 1 – Contact power plants in Wyoming to obtain bottom ash samples.
- Task 2 – Obtain two aggregate sources for inclusion in the experiment.
- Task 3 – Prepare mix designs that incorporate bottom ash in the mixes.
- Task 4 – Utilize the results from the mix design in the preparation of laboratory samples for freeze-thaw testing.
- Task 5 – Summarize the findings from the freeze-thaw testing.
- Task 6 – Compare the findings from the control and bottom ash mixes.
- 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
$146,647
Student Involvement
One graduate student; one undergraduate student
Relationship to Other Research Projects
The University of Wyoming has performed several studies on bottom ash. These studies will guide the activities of this new study.
Technology Transfer Activities
Transportation Departments in Region 8.
Potential Benefits of the Project
Increased and effective utilization of waste bottom ash in asphalt pavements in the Mountain-Plains region.
TRB Keywords
Pavement performance, moisture susceptibility, bottom ash asphalt mixes