The Grainger College of Engineering
Illinois Center for Transportation

New ICT-IDOT reports

4/20/2022 McCall Macomber

Illinois Center for Transportation is pleased to announce the publication of reports from the following Illinois Department of Transportation-sponsored projects, in order of publication.

R27-SP49: Optimal Approach for Addressing Reinforcement Corrosion for Concrete Bridge Decks in Illinois
Matthew Gombeda, Illinois Institute of Technology
Jayme Schiff and Daniel Tobias, Illinois Department of Transportation

Placing epoxy-coated steel reinforcing bars in concrete bridge decks, shown above, is a popular method to help mitigate corrosion. Alternative options to prevent corrosion include the use of galvanized, stainless-steel or A1035 bars.
Placing epoxy-coated steel reinforcing bars in concrete bridge decks, shown above, is a popular method to help mitigate corrosion. Alternative options to prevent corrosion include the use of galvanized, stainless-steel or A1035 bars.

Steel reinforcing bars are placed in concrete bridge decks to strengthen bridges and extend their service lives. This project assisted IDOT with determining the optimal reinforcement type to use in their bridge decks.

The researchers examined various corrosion-resistant reinforcement types, such as epoxy-coated, galvanized, stainless-steel and A1035 bars, in addition to standard “black” reinforcing bars. They helped IDOT develop a policy on when to use certain types of reinforcement in their bridge decks based on the amount of traffic on a bridge and the bridge’s expected life, lowering life cycle and maintenance costs and extending the life of bridge decks.

R27-SP47: Evaluating the Benefits of Implementing Mobile Road Weather Information Sensors
Khaled El-Rayes and Ernest-John Ignacio, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Laura Shanley, Illinois Department of Transportation

Illinois Department of Transportation uses approximately 60 road weather information systems throughout the state. Mobile systems are expected to better measure real-time roadway conditions in the winter.
Illinois Department of Transportation uses approximately 60 road weather information systems throughout the state. Mobile systems are expected to better measure real-time roadway conditions in the winter.

Road weather information systems measure and communicate weather and pavement data to help provide detailed information about roadway conditions. Mobile systems — which can be fixed to vehicles such as snowplows or trucks — are expected to further improve data collection and decision making during the winter.

Researchers examined the potential use of mobile road weather information systems for IDOT. They reviewed literature on the technology and interviewed four states on their use of the mobile systems. The findings from this study are being used to outline the second-phase pilot study targeted for data collection over the next two winters.

Implementation of the mobile systems is expected to lead to more efficient use of deicing chemicals, less equipment wear, safer roads with fewer delays and environmental benefits.

R27-SP48: Longitudinal Cracking Investigation on I-72 Experimental Unbonded Concrete Overlay
Jeffery Roesler, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Charles Wienrank, Illinois Department of Transportation

An experimental unbonded concrete overlay on I-72 east of Springfield, IL. The six-inch-thick overlay included synthetic macrofibers in the concrete mixture and was sawed into six feet by six feet panels in the travel lanes.
An experimental unbonded concrete overlay on I-72 east of Springfield, IL. The six-inch-thick overlay included synthetic macrofibers in the concrete mixture and was sawed into six feet by six feet panels in the travel lanes.

Overlays are a commonly used and effective rehabilitation strategy for extending the service life of a deteriorated pavement. One type, known as an unbonded concrete overlay, consists of a concrete layer placed over an interlayer of either new or existing material on top of a distressed concrete pavement. The design of the interlayer is key, as it must be able to withstand repeated traffic loads and resist moisture damage to prevent premature failure.

Researchers investigated the performance of an experimental section on I-72 east of Springfield and provided IDOT engineers with background for interlayer selection, design and construction practices for unbonded concrete overlays. They also provided recommendations on hot-mix asphalt and nonwoven geotextile fabric interlayers, which will help provide longer-lasting pavements that require fewer repairs or maintenance.

R27-193-6: Performance Evaluation of Stabilized Support Layers for Concrete Pavements
Jeffery Roesler, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Charles Wienrank, Illinois Department of Transportation

Edge failures in a jointed plain concrete pavement due to lack of support.
Edge failures in a jointed plain concrete pavement due to lack of support.

The support layers underneath a concrete pavement can significantly impact its performance. Erosion of these layers can lead to significant pavement deterioration, reducing the pavement’s life span.

The research team examined the erosion potential of stabilized support layers under concrete pavements and overlays through lab and field studies. They developed a performance test for asphalt and Portland cement stabilized support layers under new pavements to measure their susceptibility to erosion.

The test and criteria will also assist pavement engineers in assessing whether a concrete overlay can be placed on top of an existing pavement without potential for premature erosion, which will help create longer-lasting, cost-effective roadways.