Thesis
Comparison of nuclear and non-nuclear density gauges for determining in-place density of hot mix asphalt
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2012
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/104154
Abstract
Ensuring that an HMA mat is compacted uniformly to an adequate density is very important to the performance of the pavement structure over the project life. Nuclear density gauges (NDGs) have been used for many years in pavement construction as a method of non-destructive density testing. Non-nuclear density gauges (NNDGs) perform the same function as NDGs. However because NNDGs are not powered by a nuclear source material, they are not subject to the same extensive fees and regulations as NDGs. Field and laboratory testing results for two NNDGs, the Troxler PaveTracker and Transtech PQI, were analyzed in order to determine if the NNDGs could serve as viable replacements to NDGs. A number of potential factors that could affect the accuracy of NNDGs were studied. Ability of the NNDGs to establish a roller pattern and take readings at longitudinal pavement joints was also analyzed. Global factors of aggregate mineralogy, nominal maximum aggregate size, HMA class, and aggregate absorption were shown not to significantly affect the NNDGs. Local factors of surface fines and surface markings were also shown to have no significant affect on NNDG readings. Temperature and moisture were shown to affect NNDG readings. The NNDGs in general showed stronger correlations with core densities than the NDGs did. Further study on moisture, longitudinal joints, and roller patterns are suggested. Additional data is also needed to examine interactions between global factors for the PaveTracker.
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Details
- Title
- Comparison of nuclear and non-nuclear density gauges for determining in-place density of hot mix asphalt
- Creators
- Anthony Timm
- Contributors
- Haifang Wen (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; [Pullman, Washington] :
- Identifiers
- 99900525013501842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis