Full-Depth Reclamation (FDR) for Suburban/Urban and Local Roads Application

Abstract

Full-depth reclamation (FDR) as a rehabilitation method improves the service life of pavement structures by reusing asphalt materials, thereby reducing costs and allowing for conservation of nonrenewable resources. However, the lack of mechanicsbased material testing procedures and performance-based specifications limit the use of FDR processes. First, the FDR design and construction process are presented, then, a literature review focusing on FDR research is completed, and a survey is conducted to obtain relevant information regarding current FDR practices in Minnesota. Next, Indirect Tensile Test (IDT) and Dynamic Modulus Test in IDT mode testing is performed on four FDR materials: Field mixed, Lab compacted; Lab mixed, Lab compacted; FDR with cement additive; and FDR with graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) additive. Two curing times are used to determine how physical properties change over time. Test results are used to perform simulations in MnPAVE software and a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA). Laboratory observations indicate that cement additive reduces predicted life and increases critical cracking temperature with a slight increase in cost; GNP additive reduces predicted life but also reduces critical cracking temperature with a significant cost increase; Lab mixed samples performed better than Field mixed, suggesting that field methods could be improved; and curing has a positive effect on the FDR materials with cement and GNP additives--for both materials, the dynamic modulus increase, and the GNP samples also had a slight increase in tensile strength. MnPAVE simulations and LCCA results indicate that over a 35-year period, FDR may be a more cost-effective method than traditional mill and overlay.